It's commonly understood that throughout every stage of our lives the only constant we can depend on changes. Our sleeping habits, for example, will vary throughout our lifetime. But many myths and misconceptions exist about the amount of time we should be sleeping at every stage, especially when we're older. The truth is that if you are sleeping less than you should it could be because of several conditions that may in fact be treatable, and that lack of rest could lead to complications beyond falling asleep on the couch. If you would like to learn more, get in contact with Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL.
Not Enough Sleep
An often mentioned misconception is that of the lazy teen. Many of us expect them to act like the adults they will soon become, and may accidentally be imposing on them an adult's sleeping schedule while still expecting them to perform.
Teenagers require between 9 and 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep as it is a time of accelerated and constant change, and not simply physical. Yet they are bombarded with early school starts and modern distractions. The best you can do for your teen is to help them develop sleeping habits they can stick to, and teach them to limit their consumption of caffeine products.
Another misconception is that when we're much older we will need far less sleep than younger adults. But the truth is that there isn't a difference as drastic in our sleeping needs as there is between the change from being a teenager and into adulthood. Perhaps requiring only one less hour of rest when we reach 65 than we did before.
As we grow older we encounter more and more distractions that crave our waking hours, and with time, a variety of sleeping disorders and medical conditions that affect sleep become more likely.
Sleeping Disorders Treatment in Bradenton, FL
Your lack of sleep, also known as insomnia, can be due to a variety of reasons, many of which may be treatable. Don't assume it's simply to do with your age. Your best first step is to visit a specialist, so make your appointment today with Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, (941) 792-8383.