This Common Habit Could Signal Serious Health Problems in Later Life

A long-term study found that, among 1,338 older adults, longer naps, more frequent naps, and earlier daytime naps were linked to higher all-cause mortality risk.

Researchers tracked participants for up to 19 years using wrist-based activity monitors, giving a more objective view of daytime sleep patterns.

Day-to-day variability in nap timing was not associated with mortality, suggesting the pattern of napping may matter more than occasional changes.

If confirmed, nap tracking could help clinicians spot hidden illness, sleep disruption, or cognitive decline earlier in aging populations.