Listen up, all my friends who think I am crazy for being asleep by 10:00 pm and awake at 4:00 am! A recent study found that individuals with a morning preference who go to bed early exhibit better mental health compared to morning-types who go to bed late. Add to that, those with an evening preference who sleep late demonstrate poorer mental health!

Everyone has their individual sleep needs. Some people are “short sleepers” like me while others are “long sleepers”. Short sleepers can and usually get by on 6 or less hours of sleep a night and do just fine. This study proves that at least from a mental health perspective that is true. The study wasn’t referring to that weekend morning when you look at the clock, smile, roll over, stretch and doze back off. They are referring to a lifestyle, what is the “norm” for you.

At the end of the day, think about your residents. How many of your residents truly get a good night’s sleep? If you look at your resident council meeting minutes, how many times have residents complained of noise at night? Or worse, staff turning bright lights on at 3:00 am? If you see these complaints, maybe you should discuss this with the night shift. Remember, lack of sleep can increase crankiness and the risk of falling. Scientific studies are great, however, when it comes to your residents, there is no better researcher than you! Stay well and stay informed!