Sleep is an essential part of our lives, as it allows our bodies and minds to rest and rejuvenate. The amount of sleep we need varies depending on our age, with different stages of life requiring different amounts of sleep.

In this article, we will explore at what age we need more sleep and the reasons behind it.

Newborns and Infants

Newborn babies require a significant amount of sleep to support their rapid growth and development. On average, newborns need around 14 to 17 hours of sleep per day.

However, this sleep is often fragmented and occurs in short bursts, as newborns have small stomachs and need to feed frequently.

As infants grow, their sleep patterns begin to consolidate, and they typically sleep for longer stretches. By the age of 4 to 12 months, infants need about 12 to 16 hours of sleep, including naps during the day.

Establishing a consistent sleep routine and ensuring a conducive sleep environment can help infants get the sleep they need.

Toddlers and Preschoolers

Toddlers and preschoolers also require a significant amount of sleep to support their physical and cognitive development. Typically, toddlers need about 11 to 14 hours of sleep per day, including naps.

As they transition into preschoolers, their sleep needs decrease slightly to approximately 10 to 13 hours of sleep.

During this stage, establishing a consistent bedtime routine becomes even more important, as it helps signal to their bodies that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Creating a calm and soothing environment can also facilitate better sleep for toddlers and preschoolers.

School-Age Children

As children enter school-age, their sleep needs gradually decrease. However, they still require a significant amount of sleep to support their physical growth, cognitive functioning, and overall well-being.

On average, school-age children need around 9 to 11 hours of sleep per night.

Unfortunately, many school-age children do not get the recommended amount of sleep due to various factors such as increased academic demands, extracurricular activities, and screen time.

It is important to prioritize sleep and establish consistent sleep schedules to ensure optimal functioning during the day.

Teenagers

During adolescence, there is a significant shift in sleep patterns and the amount of sleep needed. Teenagers undergo biological changes that result in a delayed sleep-wake cycle.

This means that their bodies naturally tend to stay awake later at night and wake up later in the morning.

Related Article When do We Start Sleeping Properly?

On average, teenagers need around 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night. However, due to early school start times and busy schedules, many teenagers experience sleep deprivation.

This can have negative effects on their academic performance, mood, and overall health.

Adults

In adulthood, the recommended amount of sleep settles around 7 to 9 hours per night for most individuals. However, the exact amount needed can vary depending on individual differences and lifestyle factors.

It is essential to listen to your body and ensure you are getting enough sleep to function optimally.

As adults, we often face various challenges that can interfere with our sleep, such as work stress, family responsibilities, and electronic devices.

Prioritizing sleep hygiene, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and creating a sleep-friendly environment can help improve the quality and duration of sleep.

Elderly Individuals

As we age, our sleep patterns tend to change once again. Older adults may find it more challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

They may also experience a decrease in the amount of deep sleep and an increase in sleep fragmentation.

While the average adult needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep, many older adults find that 7 to 8 hours of sleep is sufficient for them.

However, individual needs can vary, and it is important to listen to your body’s signals and adjust your sleep routine accordingly.

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a time when the body undergoes significant physical and hormonal changes, which can impact sleep. Pregnant women often experience increased fatigue and the need for more sleep compared to their pre-pregnancy state.

During pregnancy, it is recommended that women aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. However, due to discomfort, nighttime awakenings, and hormonal changes, achieving restful sleep can be challenging.

Using pillows for support, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help improve sleep during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Sleep is a vital aspect of our well-being at every stage of life. The amount of sleep we need changes as we grow and develop, with specific age groups requiring more sleep than others.

From newborns to elderly individuals, prioritizing adequate sleep and establishing healthy sleep habits can have numerous benefits for our overall health and functioning.