Medically reviewed by Jeremy Kenny, RN 

What’s your sleep personality?

Everyone has a unique sleep personality or set of sleep rituals, which can stay consistent or shift over time. For seniors, getting quality rest can become more difficult. As we age, our bodies typically need less sleep, which can lead to insomnia or more irregular sleep patterns.

A good night’s sleep means more than just feeling rested. During sleep, our bodies truly rejuvenate and reset to start the day healthy and ready to go. Whether you sleep well or are looking for ways to be more rested, learning about sleep rituals is helpful. Read more about sleep personalities, factors that influence sleep patterns, and practical tips to help you achieve the restful slumber you deserve.

What do you know about sleep?

Sleep plays a vital role in our physical and mental health. During sleep, our minds rest as well as our bodies, which is important for recharging. How sleep savvy are you? Let’s explore a few facts.

• Sleep prepares your brain for the next day. Sleep forms new pathways that help our ability to learn and remember information. Think of it as your brain’s way of organizing everything that happened during the day so you can recall it later.
• Your body heals during sleep. From muscle recovery to strengthening the immune system, sleep supports the proper functioning of all your body systems.
• Everyone needs a different amount of sleep. While most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, factors like age, lifestyle, and overall health also drive your individual needs.

Know your sleep personality

Just as our personalities differ, so do our sleep habits. Understanding your sleep personality can help you find things that are interfering with your ability to get a good night's rest. If you’re not sure which fits, ask your loved one or spouse for their view of your sleep habits or patterns. Or consider keeping a sleep diary. Record the time you go to bed, the time you wake up, and how rested you feel throughout the day. Over time, this diary can offer valuable insights into your sleep patterns. Let’s see which of the sleep personalities below feel like you.

The well-rested individual: This person consistently enjoys a good night's sleep and wakes up feeling refreshed and energized. They likely have established healthy sleep habits and prioritize sleep as an essential part of their daily routine.

The habitual napper: This person often takes long afternoon naps, consumes excessive caffeine, and falls asleep while watching TV. Naps, while sometimes beneficial, do not provide the same restorative benefits as nighttime sleep. While a short nap can offer a temporary boost, it's essential to prioritize consistent, quality sleep during the night to reap the full rewards.

The night owl: This person struggles to relax when the lights go out, with their mind often racing into the wee hours. They may have difficulty winding down and quieting their thoughts before bed.

The frequent waker: This person falls asleep easily but experiences frequent wake-up calls throughout the night. These interruptions can disrupt their sleep cycle and leave them feeling tired and groggy in the morning.

The sleep deprived: This person struggles to get well-rested, no matter how hard they try. The reason may be due to an undiagnosed sleep disorder or an underlying health condition, rather than a ritual or habit.

Tips for finding better sleep

Regardless of your sleep personality, several strategies work universally for everyone when it comes to improving sleep.

• Make sleep a top priority: Treat sleep as an essential part of your daily routine, just like exercise and healthy eating. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
• Break bad habits: Avoid consuming caffeine in the late afternoon or evening, as it can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Limit your use of electronic devices before bed, as the blue light emitted from screens can disrupt your sleep cycle. Be mindful of long midday naps.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Establish a calming routine to help you wind down before bed. This may include reading a book, taking a warm bath, praying, writing in a journal, meditating, making a to-do list, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Create a comfortable sleep environment that is cool, dark, and quiet.
• Be active and eat a healthy diet: Regular physical activity can promote better sleep but avoid exercising too close to bedtime. Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in brain-calming nutrients such as whole-grain carbohydrates, calcium, and magnesium.
• Drink less: Limit fluid intake before bed to reduce the need for nighttime bathroom trips. Avoid alcohol before bed, as it can disrupt your sleep cycle.
• Work with a primary care doctor: If you consistently struggle with sleep problems, consult your healthcare provider. They can help find any underlying medical conditions or sleep disorders that may be contributing to your sleep difficulties.

By understanding the importance of sleep, identifying your sleep personality, and implementing practical tips, you can take control of your sleep and unlock the luxury of a well-rested life. If you’re still struggling with finding a healthy sleep life, contact a Conviva Care Center and schedule a visit with one of our doctors.

Disclaimer

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new fitness or dietary plans. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement of any website or other sources. For any health-related questions, contact your healthcare provider.

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