Daytime Napping in Seniors May Be Linked to Higher Death Risk, New Study Finds

Daytime naps are common among older adults, and for many families, seeing a grandparent resting in a favorite chair feels completely normal. However, new research suggests that frequent or extended daytime napping in seniors could be associated with a greater risk of death. The findings have sparked interest among sleep experts and healthcare providers who see napping habits as a possible early warning sign of underlying health concerns.

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that excessive daytime naps among older adults were linked with a higher mortality risk. While the study does not prove that naps directly cause health problems, it highlights the importance of monitoring changes in sleep patterns later in life.

What the Study Found

Researchers tracked 1,338 older adults for as long as 19 years. Participants wore wrist activity monitors for around 10 days at the start of the study, allowing scientists to measure daytime sleep habits more accurately than self-reported surveys.

The results showed several notable patterns:

• Each extra hour of daytime napping was linked to a 13% higher risk of death.
• Every additional nap per day was associated with a 7% increase in mortality risk.
• Morning naps were linked to a 30% higher death risk compared with afternoon naps.

Nearly all participants took at least one nap during the monitoring period, showing that napping is extremely common in later life.

Why Morning Naps May Matter

Sleep specialists found the morning nap data particularly interesting. If someone has had a full night of sleep, they would typically feel refreshed in the morning. Feeling the need to sleep again shortly after waking could suggest an underlying issue.

Possible causes of unusual morning sleepiness may include:

• Poor nighttime sleep quality
• Sleep Apnea
• Heart disease
• Lung disease
• Medication side effects
• Depression
• Circadian rhythm disruption

Experts say persistent morning fatigue should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Are Afternoon Naps Still Normal?

Not all naps are considered harmful. In fact, short afternoon naps may be biologically normal. Many people experience a natural dip in alertness after lunch, which is why midday rest is common in cultures that practice siesta traditions.

A brief nap of 20 to 30 minutes in the early afternoon may help improve:

• Alertness
• Mood
• Memory
• Energy levels

The key concern in the study was not occasional afternoon rest, but increasing nap frequency, long nap duration, and naps taken earlier in the day.

Why Excessive Napping Could Signal Health Problems

Researchers believe daytime napping may be more of a symptom than a cause. In other words, frequent naps may indicate that the body is already struggling with another issue.

Common conditions linked to excessive sleepiness include:

1. Sleep Disorders

Conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea can reduce sleep quality overnight, leading to daytime fatigue.

2. Chronic Illness

Heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions often reduce energy levels.

3. Medication Effects

Some prescriptions can cause drowsiness, especially when multiple medications are taken together.

4. Cognitive Decline

Changes in sleep patterns have also been associated with neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease.

What Seniors and Families Should Watch For

If an older adult suddenly begins napping more often or sleeping much longer during the day, it may be worth paying attention.

Warning signs include:

• Needing multiple naps daily
• Sleeping more than one hour during the day
• Frequent morning naps
• Loud snoring or choking during sleep
• Worsening memory issues
• Constant tiredness despite sleeping at night

Tracking these patterns can help doctors identify potential health issues earlier.

Tips for Healthier Sleep in Older Adults

Improving nighttime sleep may reduce excessive daytime fatigue. Helpful habits include:

• Keeping a regular sleep schedule
• Getting sunlight exposure in the morning
• Staying physically active
• Limiting caffeine late in the day
• Avoiding heavy meals before bedtime
• Managing stress
• Reviewing medications with a doctor

If naps are needed, keeping them short and earlier in the afternoon may be more beneficial.

Important Takeaway

This study does not mean that every nap is dangerous. Many healthy older adults nap occasionally without problems. Instead, the research suggests that changes in napping patterns may offer clues about overall health.

For seniors, caregivers, and families, daytime sleep habits should be viewed as one part of a bigger wellness picture. If someone becomes unusually sleepy during the day, it may be time for a medical checkup.

Conclusion

Daytime naps can be restful and normal, but excessive napping in older adults may deserve closer attention. Frequent naps, long naps, or morning naps could signal poor sleep quality or hidden medical issues. Rather than ignoring these changes, families and healthcare providers can use them as an opportunity to support better health and earlier treatment.

Sources

1. Mass General Brigham News Release, April 20, 2026
2. Dr. Seymour Huberfeld, pulmonary and sleep physician, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Statistical findings reflect population trends and may not apply to every individual. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical concerns, diagnosis, or treatment.