Scientists Find an Unexpected Link Between Napping and Longevity

Hit Snooze: A good nap now and then can feel like a dream when we’re wiped out. Short naps now and then are fine, but needing to nap often or for long periods could signal a deeper problem. A recent study found certain napping patterns were linked to higher mortality risk. 

The Study: The prospective cohort study included 1,338 community-dwelling adults aged 56 and older, with a mean follow-up of 8.3 years. Instead of relying on self-reported data, researchers measured napping objectively by having participants wear devices on their wrist to track their naps for about 10 days. Most participants were female (76%), with a mean age of 81. 

Longer and more frequent napping was associated with higher all-cause mortality. Morning napping had an approximately 30% higher mortality risk than early-afternoon napping. Each additional hour of daytime sleep was associated with 13% increased mortality risk.

The Takeaway: Researchers say napping patterns could serve as behavioral markers for increased mortality risk. To be clear: The naps themselves likely weren’t the problem — it’s the underlying cause of the napping, such as disrupted circadian rhythms or chronic health conditions.

Keep In Mind: The study was observational, so found only an association, not causation.