And what about at night?
The corollary is to set the stage in the evening for good sleep by limiting the things that say "stay awake." These include limiting bright-light exposure late at night to things like TV and computer screens, especially if you are particularly sensitive to light.
Engage in relaxing activities such as reading. Limit your caffeine intake. Smoking is bad for you anyway, but if you smoke close to bedtime, it will make it harder to fall asleep. And don't drink alcohol within three hours of bedtime because once it leaves your system it actually gives you a rebound alertness. And your bedtime should be at the same time within 30 minutes every night.
If you are having trouble sleeping, when should you consult a doctor?
If your sleep is affecting how you function during the day. If you feel that the quality of life has decreased or your mood is altered, it should be discussed.
How much sleep does an adult need?
The recommendation by the American Academy of Sleep, based on research into sleep deprivation and when individuals perform at their best cognitively, is 7 1/2 to eight hours. There can be [exceptions], but most folks who think, "I can get four hours and function just fine," are really robbing themselves of their best.
Do we need less sleep as we age?
It is a myth that we need less sleep as we age. Many people think that as they get older, they need less sleep or that the quality of their sleep should lessen. It should be emphasized that the quality of our sleep is not something we should be resigned to: People have options of how to really improve the quality of their sleep and lives.
Have you ever experienced insomnia or sleep loss?
Oh, my goodness, when my daughter was born, I thought, "I've been on call; I've been prepared for this. It will be no big deal." ... The loss of sleep when you have a child was a lot worse. I think I felt on call all the time. She is 4 now and is sleeping through the night, but the experience remains vivid.
