Contrary to popular belief, seniors do not need less sleep. They simply tend to get less sleep. In adulthood and the senior years, more than one-third of the U.S. population reports inadequate or disrupted sleep. A lack of sufficient sleep can lead to many health complications, especially in the elderly. Sleep's role in memory processing and storage is vitally important, as seniors are naturally at risk for memory loss and dementia. Seniors who aren't getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night should let their medical professional know, and try to resolve the problem.

MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY VIDEOS

CHAPTER 1 The Importance of Sleep Sleep is not a luxury. It is essential to our fitness, memory, mood and overall health. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 3 We Sleep in Cycles Our sleep progresses through four distinct cycles, and each plays a role in maintaining our health. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 10 Sleep and Your Weight A good night's sleep keeps two important appetite-control hormones in balance. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 14 Could You Have Sleep Apnea? This breathing disorder disrupts sleep and plays havoc with your health. VIEW VIDEO

CHAPTER 17 (currently viewing) Seniors Need Sleep Seniors should still aim for about eight hours of sleep per night. VIEW VIDEO