Sleepless at 40: New Study Reveals Middle-Aged Individuals Struggling with Sleep
A new study conducted by the Agewell Foundation has revealed that sleeplessness is not just a problem for the elderly, but also for those in their 40s. The study drew from the sleeping patterns of 5,000 middle-aged and older individuals, with 45% of the respondents falling between the ages of 40-64 years. The study found that nearly 70% of the respondents slept less than 6 hours, with more men yearning for a longer sleep.
Contributing Factors to Sleep Disorders
The study found that emotional, social, and lifestyle issues contributed to a range of sleep disorders. Conflict between generations over financial and property matters was identified as one of the major factors affecting sleep by 73% of the respondents. Lack of interaction with elderly family members, ego-related conflict between younger and elderly family members, and disrespect and misbehavior by younger family members were also cited as reasons contributing to disturbed sleep patterns.
Sleep Habits and Satisfaction
During the survey, 52% of the respondents said they had been struggling to have deep sleep, with 56% being male and 44% female respondents. Nearly 75% of urban respondents said they slept less than 5-6 hours a day, while 64% of rural respondents reported the same. Around 54% of the respondents complained that with age, they are sleeping less, while 32% of respondents claimed that they noticed no significant change in their sleep habits. However, 14% of respondents claimed they were sleeping more now in comparison to their earlier years. Overall, 56% of the respondents said they were not satisfied with their current sleep pattern.
Medications and Daily Habits
Agewell Foundation’s founder chairman, Himanshu Rath, said that in old age, more than 90% of people take some or the other medicine, most of which are not sleep-friendly. Certain medicines for high blood pressure can decrease the quality of rest or sleep, while some medicines can cause daytime drowsiness. Fast-changing daily habits in post-retirement life also play a part in reducing the quality of sleep. People who feel loneliness due to low social interaction may also feel increased anxiety and stress, and subsequently poor sleep.
Conclusion
The survey titled “Sleep Disorders – Emerging Health Issues in Old Age” was conducted during May across 20 states and UTs. The study highlights the growing public health challenge of sleeplessness, not just among the elderly but also among middle-aged individuals. It is important to address the contributing factors to sleep disorders and to promote healthy sleep habits to improve the quality of life for individuals of all ages.
