What is "sleep architecture?"
Ask the doctor
I've heard that "sleep architecture" can affect how well I sleep each night. What is it?Aging also changes our sleep architecture in marked ways. There's a natural shift toward lighter sleep as years pass, with less time spent in restorative, deep sleep. At the same time, our circadian rhythm tends to swing, driving us toward earlier bedtimes and wake-ups. While we can't change that component of sleep architecture, we can take steps to optimize our sleep cycles. These include keeping a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the hours before bedtime, and limiting exposure to phones and other light-emitting devices in the evening.
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About the Author
Kathryn Corelli, MD, Contributor
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