Napping Habits Linked to Mortality Risk in Older adults
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Research suggests that changes in napping patterns,especially among seniors,may be associated with increased mortality risk. But lifestyle factors can make a difference.
Feeling sleepy during the day is a common experience, and many people take naps to boost energy and fight fatigue. However, a recent study indicates that napping habits, particularly earlier in the day, could be linked to higher mortality rates in certain populations.While the research is still awaiting peer review, the initial findings are noteworthy.
Expert insight provided by Ashley Curtis, Ph.D., assistant professor and director of the Cognition, Aging, Sleep, and Health (CASH) Lab at the University of South Florida.
A study published in the journal Sleep tracked 86,565 participants in the United Kingdom, drawn from the UK Biobank. The volunteers ranged in age from 43 to 79 years, with 57% identifying as female and 43% as male. The study aimed to find connections between daytime napping behaviors and mortality risk.
Key Findings on Napping and Mortality
Ashley Curtis, Ph.D., emphasizes that the increased risk isn’t solely about napping itself, but also about changes in existing nap patterns. She states, “These metrics, in combination with worse nighttime sleep (such as shorter total sleep time), may predict worse mortality outcomes.”
“These metrics, in combination with worse nighttime sleep…may predict worse mortality outcomes.”
Can the Connection Between Napping and Death Be Broken?
Dr. curtis cites research indicating that the mortality risk associated with longer daytime napping in older adults might be mitigated by lifestyle factors like physical activity. “That is, specifically meeting the recommended weekly dosage of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) can weaken the association between napping and mortality risk,” she explains. “Such physical activities for older adults could include fast walking or jogging, dancing, swimming, or hiking.”
The Bottom Line
Dr. curtis notes that the relationship between napping and mortality might be more complex in older adults and influenced by sex differences in sleep disorders. “At least one study has shown that in older men, those who slept less then six hours and napped more than 30 minutes during the day had a higher risk of mortality,” she explains, adding that this pattern was not observed in women.
Furthermore, Dr. Curtis points out that older men, compared to older women, experience higher rates of frequent nighttime urination and obstructive sleep apnea, both of which contribute to increased daytime sleepiness.
“The longer napping and increased mortality relationship findings in older adults are largely consistent. Though, the exact mechanisms underlying this relationship have not been fully determined,” Dr. Curtis says. “The napping and mortality relationship is complex and may be influenced by adverse or protective lifestyle factors (e.g., nutrition, physical activity, substance use), nighttime sleep patterns, and underlying sleep disorders, medical comorbidities, age, as well as sex and gender-related factors.”
While further research is necessary, this study offers potential for identifying early predictors of increased mortality and developing new clinical strategies to promote longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Napping
- Is napping always bad for you?
- No,short naps (20-30 minutes) can improve alertness and performance. Though, long or irregular naps may disrupt nighttime sleep and be associated with health risks.
- How much sleep do older adults need?
- Older adults generally need the same amount of sleep as younger adults, around 7-9 hours per night. However, thier sleep patterns may change, leading to more frequent daytime napping.
- What lifestyle factors can improve sleep quality?
- Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed can improve sleep quality.
- When should I be concerned about my napping habits?
- If you experience excessive daytime sleepiness, have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night, or notice changes in your napping patterns, consult a healthcare professional.
- Can physical activity really counteract the negative effects of napping?
- Some research suggests that meeting the recommended weekly dosage of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can weaken the association between napping and mortality risk, particularly in older adults.
