Long Naps and Frequent Napping Linked to Higher Mortality Risk in Older Adults: Study Findings

Long and frequent daytime naps may increase the risk of death from any cause, according to a recent study published in JAMA Network Open. Researchers followed more than 1,300 adults aged 56 and older for 19 years to examine whether nap habits could be linked to mortality. The findings revealed that individuals who take long naps — particularly those lasting more than an hour — especially in the morning, face a higher risk of dying compared to those who nap less frequently or for shorter durations.

Each additional hour of daily napping was associated with a 13% increase in the risk of death from any cause. The study used actigraphs — wrist-worn devices similar to fitness trackers — to objectively monitor sleep patterns among participants, whose average age was 81. Researchers emphasized that even as occasional short naps can help relieve fatigue and improve alertness, excessive daytime napping may serve as a warning sign of underlying health issues that have not yet been diagnosed.

Experts noted that the nap itself is not likely the direct cause of increased mortality risk. Instead, frequent and prolonged napping — especially in the morning — could reflect undiagnosed conditions such as neurodegeneration or cardiovascular disease. The study highlights the importance of monitoring changes in sleep behavior among older adults, as shifts in napping habits might signal the need for further medical evaluation.

While napping is a common practice among older individuals seeking to restore energy, the research suggests that healthcare providers and caregivers should pay attention to the frequency, duration, and timing of naps. Long morning naps, in particular, were identified as a potential red flag warranting closer health assessment.