Good Rest, Good Health

Sleep patterns may change over time and can impact your health. Want to know if you’re getting enough sleep? Take our quiz.

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Sleep Myths and Facts

Take our quiz to find out if you are a sleep expert – or if you were only dreaming.

We need less sleep as we get older. *MythFact

Answer: Myth!

While it may be true that the older we get the harder it is to fall and stay asleep, we still need our beauty rest. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends adults of all ages get 7 or more hours of sleep a night.

You can catch up on sleep by napping. *MythFact

Answer: Fact!

Sleep experts say you can make up for some lost sleep. Taking a short nap (30 minutes or less) early in the day can help boost your energy, but it can’t replace a good night’s sleep. For others who regularly have trouble falling asleep, daytime napping can make insomnia worse.

Besides feeling tired, losing sleep is no big deal. *MythFact

Answer: Myth!

Sleep deprivation is a very big deal. Sleep is essential to the proper functioning of the body. Ongoing loss of sleep over time can lead to increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, stroke, depression and dementia.

Melatonin can help improve sleep in older adults. *MythFact

Answer: Fact!

Our bodies naturally produce the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate the sleep cycle. As we age, the amount of melatonin we produce declines. The short-term use of melatonin can help treat insomnia in some older adults. Before taking any supplement or sleep aid, be sure to check with your healthcare provider about whether and how much of it is right for you.

Creating a regular routine at night can help you sleep. *MythFact

Answer: Fact!

Sleep experts say going to bed and waking up at the same time, even on weekends, can help reset your internal clock and get you on the right track to better sleep.

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