Researchers found that older adults who frequently nap, especially in the morning, may face a higher risk of mortality. The study analyzed data from 1,338 participants aged 56 and older, revealing that longer naps and more frequent napping were linked to increased mortality risk. Specifically, a one-hour increase in nap duration was associated with a risk equivalent to being about 1.1 years older, while each additional nap per day corresponded to a risk comparable to being 0.6 years older. Morning nappers had the highest risk, with implications similar to being 2.5 years older.

This finding is significant for anyone looking to age well. If you’re an older adult who enjoys napping, this research suggests that timing and frequency matter. While a short afternoon nap may not pose a risk, frequent or long morning naps could indicate underlying health issues and contribute to a decline in overall health. Being aware of your napping habits could help you make informed choices about your daily routine and health.

The study utilized wrist actigraphy to track napping patterns over 14 days, providing a more accurate assessment than self-reported data. While the results are compelling, they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. The authors caution that excessive napping may signal underlying health conditions rather than being a direct cause of increased mortality. Future research could help clarify these connections and how wearable devices might assist in monitoring health risks.

Source: lifespan.io