THURSDAY, Jan. 27 (HealthDay News) — Only 42 percent of Americans say they sleep well almost every night and can therefore be categorized as “great sleepers,” according to a new National Sleep Foundation survey.
An extra hour each night makes the difference, survey suggests.
The so-called “Bedroom Poll” found that great sleepers get an average of about one hour more shuteye than others. On weekdays, a great sleeper gets an average of seven hours and nine minutes of slumber per night, compared with an average of six hours and two minutes for those who get good sleep less often.
On weekends, a great sleeper gets an average of seven hours and 41 minutes of sleep per night, compared to an average of six hours and 52 minutes for others, the poll found.
The telephone survey of 1,500 adults aged 25 to 55 also found that most Americans believe the comfort and cleanliness of their bedroom are key to getting a good night’s sleep.
More than nine out of 10 respondents said mattresses and pillows play an important role in good sleep, and more than three-quarters also believe the comfortable feeling of sheets and bedding are crucial. In fact, more than 70 percent reported being more comfortable when sheets have a fresh scent.
Other important factors include keeping the bedroom at a cool temperature, keeping the sleeping area dark and quiet, and making sure the room has clean air that is free of allergens, according to two-thirds of the survey participants.
The poll also found that people who make their bed every day are 19 percent more likely to say they get a good night’s sleep than those who don’t make their bed every day.
“Love your bedroom and make it the best place you can, but at the end of the day, it’s crucial to give yourself enough time to wind down and get the seven to nine hours of sleep that most people need to feel their healthiest and best,” David Cloud, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation, said in a news release from the organization.
More information
The U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has more about sleep.
SOURCE: National Sleep Foundation, news release, Jan. 25, 2011
Copyright © 2011 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
