Optimal sleep duration
This is how much sleep you should get at age 60
Updated 11/11/2025 – 07:39Reading time: 2 minutes
Sleep is important for health – most people know that. However, it requires changes throughout life. This is the perfect sleep duration for elderly people.
The question of optimal sleep duration is very important, especially in old age. Because sleep has a direct impact on physical and mental health.
At the age of 60, the body usually needs seven to eight hours of sleep per night to be able to regenerate sufficiently and be fit for daily life. These guidelines are based on the recommendations of the National Sleep Foundation (a non-profit organization in the US).
Sleep fulfills many important functions. Not only does it function for physical recovery, but also for memory formation, reducing stress hormones and strengthening the immune system. However, with age, sleep often becomes less restful: the deep sleep phase, which has a regenerative effect, decreases, while the time in the light sleep phase increases. Additionally, there are often health challenges such as pain, nighttime urination, or sleep apnea, which can disrupt sleep.
Many people over 60 report that they get tired earlier and wake up earlier. This is due to changes in the internal clock that affect the sleep-wake cycle. Despite this, sleep duration remains constant at around seven to eight hours, although it is sometimes spread out throughout the day – for example through short naps.
At age 60, sleep remains important for health and well-being. A regular sleep duration of seven to eight hours and a healthy sleep environment can help improve quality of life and prevent aging problems. If you suffer from sleep problems, you should consult a doctor.
