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Check Your Mattress

According to the Better Sleep Council, it is a widely accepted myth that people need less sleep with age. "Actually, as adults age, they need just as much sleep as they did when they were younger - they simply have a more difficult time getting the sleep they need," says Andrea Herman, director of the Better Sleep Council.

As adults get older, their bodies experience a number of physical changes that can lead to nighttime discomfort — making it difficult to sleep peacefully without disruptions. Some of these factors include: more brittle bones, decreased circulation, arthritis and lower back pain.

As your body ages and becomes more sensitive, the quality of sleep surfaces can play an increasingly significant role in determining sleep comfort. For aging adults in search of a good night's sleep, Herman suggests checking to make sure your sleep set continues to provide optimum comfort and support. "As we age, our comfort preferences change along with our bodies — what may have been appropriate when you bought your mattress, may no longer provide the adequate comfort and support for you now."

"A mattress that's a good match for you can ease some of the discomfort caused by time," says Herman. "For example, as your bones become less flexible and more brittle, you may require a more resilient and well-cushioned mattress."

For anyone who wants find out if a new mattress will help them sleep more peacefully, the Better Sleep Council suggests visiting a mattress retailer for a rest test. "Talk to the retailer about your lifestyle and any sleep disturbances or physical discomfort that you have," advises Herman. "Then, spend a few minutes lying down on a variety of mattresses to find the degree of comfort and support that's right for you."