Sleep needs according to age

Sleep is a vital function that plays a crucial role in our physical and mental well-being. But did you know that our sleep needs vary considerably throughout our lives? From infancy to adulthood and beyond, each stage of our development requires a specific amount of rest to ensure optimal functioning.

Understanding these age-specific sleep needs is essential for optimal health and enhanced mental performance. In this article, we'll explore the different stages of life and their specific sleep needs.

Sleep needs in babies and young children

The sleep needs of babies and young children are of paramount importance for their physical and cognitive development. During their first years of life, these little sleepers require more restful hours to promote growth, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation.

Infants (0 to 3 months)

Infants have irregular sleep cycles and need 14 to 17 hours of sleep per day. However, their sleep is often interrupted by hunger and diaper changes. New parents should expect frequent awakenings during this time.

Babies (4 months to 12 months)

Babies typically need 12 to 15 hours of sleep a day, including naps. As they grow, they begin to establish more regular sleep routines, but nighttime waking may still be frequent.

Toddlers (1 to 2 years)

Toddlers need about 11 to 14 hours of sleep a day, split between nighttime and one or two naps during the day. A consistent bedtime routine can help promote more regular sleep.

Preschoolers (3 to 5 years)

Preschoolers need 10 to 13 hours of sleep a day. Most children will give up regular naps, but a short nap can still be beneficial for some.

Sleep needs in children, adolescents, adults and older adults

Sleep needs evolve throughout life. Children and adolescents need adequate sleep to support growth, brain development, and learning, while adults benefit from restorative rest to maintain their physical and mental health. Similarly, older individuals have specific sleep needs to maintain their well-being, cognition, and overall quality of life.

School-age children (6 to 12 years)

School-aged children need approximately 9 to 12 hours of sleep per night. It's important to establish a regular sleep routine, limiting distractions before bed, such as screens, which can disrupt their sleep. Also, choose a good pillow such as the Morphea Bed fluffy to promote your child's sleep.

Teenagers (13 to 18 years old)

Teenagers often struggle to get enough sleep due to busy school schedules and hormonal changes. They need approximately 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night. It is recommended to limit stimulants such as caffeine and establish a regular sleep routine.

Adults (18 to 64 years old)

Adults need approximately 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to function well. Maintaining a regular sleep routine, creating an environment conducive to rest, and managing stress are important to promote quality sleep.

Seniors (65 years and older)

The sleep needs of older adults can vary, but they generally need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Some older adults may have difficulty sleeping continuously, which may require adjustments to their sleeping environment or medical advice. To sleep well, choose a comfortable mattress and a memory foam pillow to reduce neck and lower back pain, which becomes more common with age. For this, you can turn to the ergonomic Memory pillow from Morphea Bed .

It's important to note that these recommendations are based on averages and that every individual is unique. Some may need more or less sleep to feel rested. Listen to your body and adjust your sleep habits accordingly.

By adopting a regular sleep routine, creating a restful environment, and respecting your individual needs, you can optimize the quality of your sleep, regardless of your age. Prioritize your well-being by paying close attention to your sleep habits and working to improve the quality of your rest.