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Sleep pattern

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Age is the main factor that drives changes in sleep patterns throughout life.

  • Newborns can sleep for up to 16–18 hours a day. They also have a very high proportion of REM sleep (around 50%), which is essential for brain development.
  • As we grow up, our need for sleep gradually decreases and we tend to sleep mainly at night.
  • During childhood deep sleep predominates, which is very important for growth and development.
  • In adulthood, sleep duration is usually between 7 and 8 hours.
  • In older age, sleep becomes more fragmented, with less deep sleep and more frequent night-time awakenings, which can reduce sleep quality.

There are differences linked to biological and hormonal factors. Women tend to release melatonin earlier, fall asleep a little sooner and sleep slightly longer. However, they also report poorer sleep quality and higher rates of insomnia. These patterns can vary at different stages of life, including the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.

Men, on the other hand, have a higher prevalence of sleep apnoea.

Read more Benefits of sleeping well
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Published: 26 May 2022
Updated: 15 June 2022

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