During a recent segment on the Broadcast Retirement Network, Jeffrey Snyder engaged in a discussion with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown of Restful Sleep MD about effective strategies to improve sleep quality for families. Highlighting the widespread issue of insufficient sleep, Dr. Afolabi-Brown noted that the CDC has classified inadequate sleep as a global epidemic, affecting millions worldwide.
According to Dr. Afolabi-Brown, approximately 35% of individuals globally do not receive adequate sleep. This statistic underscores the need for actionable strategies to improve sleep habits, particularly as many sleep disorders remain undiagnosed. The expert emphasized that sleep is essential for overall health and well-being.
Demographic Insights on Sleep Quality
Dr. Afolabi-Brown stated that sleep issues cut across various demographics. For instance, research shows that about 58% of middle school students and 74% of high school students do not get enough sleep. Among adults, nearly 40% of individuals in their 40s experience sleep deprivation. The causes of these sleep deficiencies vary, particularly as individuals age, with stress and increased responsibilities becoming more prevalent in adulthood.
As people progress through different life stages, the importance of restorative sleep becomes even more critical. Dr. Afolabi-Brown pointed out that while younger individuals may function well on limited sleep, older adults often need adequate rest to support their physical recovery and daily functioning.
Practical Tips for Families
For parents seeking to improve their children’s sleep quality, Dr. Afolabi-Brown recommended a family-centered approach to establish healthy sleep habits. She introduced an acronym, CREATE, which outlines essential strategies:
Consistency: Set regular sleep and wake times for both children and parents to regulate internal circadian rhythms. Dr. Afolabi-Brown urged families to avoid excessive sleeping in on weekends.
Routine: Develop calming pre-sleep routines, such as reading or taking a warm shower, to signal the brain that it is time for sleep.
Environment: Ensure a sleep-friendly environment that is cool, dark, and quiet to enhance sleep quality.
Assignment: Reserve the bed solely for sleep to create a clear association between the bed and resting. Avoid using the bedroom for work or entertainment.
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Eliminate: Be mindful of dietary choices that may affect sleep, such as caffeine, alcohol, and large meals close to bedtime. Dr. Afolabi-Brown emphasized that while the type of mattress and bedding can contribute to sleep comfort, prioritizing these fundamental habits is more crucial. She noted that even a less-than-ideal mattress cannot compensate for poor sleep hygiene. As families adopt these strategies, they can foster better sleep habits that benefit everyone, from young children to adults. Dr. Afolabi-Brown concluded that improving sleep is a shared responsibility that can lead to enhanced overall health and wellness. For further tips and insights, viewers can subscribe to the Morning Pulse newsletter for the latest updates and information. The discussion highlighted the importance of prioritizing sleep in today’s fast-paced world, encouraging families to take actionable steps toward healthier sleep practices.
