New york: A recent study has revealed that frequent daytime sleepiness among older adults may indicate underlying health issues and is associated with an increased risk of mortality. The study highlights that prolonged or frequent napping, particularly during morning hours, could reflect hidden disorders, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, or sleep problems.
According to Emirates News Agency, researchers conducted an extensive study involving over 1,300 individuals, tracking them for up to 19 years. The participants’ activity and rest patterns were precisely monitored using wrist-worn devices. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, showed that longer naps were associated with an approximately 13 percent increase in mortality risk for each additional hour of napping per day. Furthermore, more frequent naps were linked to a 7 percent increase in risk for each additional nap. Those who napped in the morning were found to have higher risk levels compared to others.
While napping is common among 20 percent to 60 percent of older adults and can occasionally be beneficial, the study suggests that excessive napping may require attention and medical follow-up.