Facebook Pixel

Do Women Need Less Sleep As They Age? - Dr. Wolfe (VIDEO)

By Expert
 
Rate This

Dr. Wolfe, is it true that women require less sleep as they age?

Dr. Wolfe:
Yes. We know that when you are young, say as a baby, you may sleep for 18 hours a day or more. As you grow and consolidate your sleep, when you become a teenager, you will typically need between nine to nine and a half hours of sleep until you are in your about mid-20s. After that, we find that 7 to 8 hours of sleep tends to be the most beneficial for health, but as you age, you’ll find that you will sleep less.

Women in their 60s, 70s, or older may find that their major sleep period at night could be six and a half or seven hours, but more likely to have a short nap in the afternoon.

About Dr. Lisa Wolfe, M.D.:
Dr. Lisa Wolfe, M.D., earned her medical degree from Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health. She completed her residency and her fellowship at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Wolfe is board certified in pulmonary disease, critical care medicine and sleep medicine.

Visit Dr. Wolfe at the Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation

Sleep Disorders

Get Email Updates

Sleep Disorders Guide

HERWriter Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!