Imagine this: it’s 3 AM, and you’re wide awake, staring at the ceiling of your flat in Msida. You’ve been sleeping lighter, waking up more frequently. You’re not alone. Many Maltese, especially those in their golden years, are experiencing this. But is lighter sleep a normal part of ageing?

The Sandman’s Changing Tune

Dr. Joseph Cuschieri, a local neurologist, explains, “Sleep architecture changes with age. Older adults tend to have lighter, more fragmented sleep.” This means we spend less time in deep sleep and more in lighter stages, leading to easier awakenings.

But why? Ageing muscles lose their flexibility, leading to more movement during sleep. Additionally, age-related changes in the brain can alter sleep patterns. Dr. Cuschieri adds, “Conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome become more common with age, further disrupting sleep.”

Malta’s Sleep Study

In 2019, the University of Malta’s Sleep Lab conducted a study on Maltese adults. They found that while light sleep increased with age, deep sleep decreased. However, the study also highlighted that lifestyle factors like stress, physical inactivity, and poor sleep habits exacerbated age-related sleep changes.

Prof. Alexia P. Pestana, the study’s lead researcher, notes, “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate age-related sleep changes. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep hygiene can make a significant difference.”

Sleeping Your Way to Better Health

Sleep is not just about feeling rested. It’s crucial for cognitive function, immune function, and overall health. A study published in the journal Neurology found that older adults who spent less than 17% of their sleep time in deep sleep had a higher risk of developing dementia.

So, what can we do? Dr. Cuschieri suggests, “Consult your doctor if sleep problems persist. They can help rule out underlying conditions and provide personalized advice.” He also recommends cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), a non-medication approach proven effective in older adults.

Prof. Pestana adds, “Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, ensuring a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding screens before bed can all help improve sleep quality.”

Remember, while lighter sleep may be a normal part of ageing, it’s not an inevitable part. With the right lifestyle choices and professional help when needed, we can age gracefully and sleep soundly.

As Malta’s population ages, let’s make sure we’re not just counting candles on our birthday cakes, but also ensuring we’re getting the sleep we need to enjoy those candles.

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