Morning blue light therapy may offer many benefits for older adults
In the journals
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Participants recorded their sleep patterns, such as their bedtime, how long it took to fall asleep, how often they woke during the night, and how long it took to fall back to sleep. They also marked the duration and frequency of daytime naps. Researchers recorded their daily movements with activity trackers. The results showed morning blue light therapy led to greater activity, earlier bedtimes, regular sleep patterns, and improved sleep quality. However, the researchers noted that longer evening blue light exposure (two-plus hours) made it more difficult to fall asleep and caused more restless nights. This suggests morning blue light exposure might be most beneficial. According to the researchers, morning blue light "wakes up" the brain, which increases alertness and synchronizes the sleep-wake cycle.
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About the Author
Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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