Daily brief   for adults 50+ Subscribe AM & PM email
50 Plus HubEverything for Everyone 50+
Customize My age is in the: 50s 60s 70s 80+ Text size Language
‹ Back to Breaking News
health50+

Sleeping 6.4 to 7.8 Hours a Day Linked to Lowest Aging Levels

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 · 2 sources

Researchers found that sleeping about 6.4 to 7.8 hours per day is associated with the lowest aging levels. Both too little and too much sleep were linked to faster aging and various health conditions.

A recent study analyzed 23 biological aging clocks and found that people who sleep around 6.4 to 7.8 hours per day have the lowest aging levels. This suggests that getting too little or too much sleep may accelerate the aging process throughout the body. Short or long sleep duration was also associated with a range of conditions affecting different parts of the body, including the brain, heart, lungs, metabolism, and digestive system. The study's findings highlight the importance of getting an optimal amount of sleep each day. Sleeping within the 6.4 to 7.8 hour range may help to slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions. The exact mechanisms behind the link between sleep and aging are not yet fully understood and require further research. The study's results provide valuable insights into the relationship between sleep and aging, and may help to inform the development of strategies for promoting healthy aging.

The 50+ takeaway: Sleeping 6.4-7.8 hours daily may slow aging.

Go Deeper

What is the ideal amount of sleep for slowing down aging?

According to the study, sleeping around 6.4 to 7.8 hours per day is associated with the lowest aging levels. This range may help to slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions.

What are the health conditions linked to short or long sleep duration?

The study found that short or long sleep duration is associated with numerous conditions affecting the brain, heart, lungs, metabolism, and digestive system. These conditions may include cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders.

Why is sleep important for healthy aging?

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining physical and mental health, and is essential for repairing and regenerating cells, building bone and muscle, and strengthening the immune system. Getting enough sleep may help to promote healthy aging and reduce the risk of developing age-related diseases.

How did the researchers measure biological aging?

The researchers analyzed 23 biological aging clocks, which are measures of the biological processes that occur as we age. These clocks can provide insights into the aging process and help to identify factors that may influence aging.

What are the implications of the study's findings?

The study's results suggest that getting an optimal amount of sleep each day may help to promote healthy aging and reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions. The findings may inform the development of strategies for promoting healthy aging and provide valuable insights into the relationship between sleep and aging.