Adults should generally aim to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health. Consistently sleeping less than 7 hours is linked to various health problems, including weight gain, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, depression, impaired immune function, and increased risk of accidents and death
. While 7 to 9 hours is the typical recommendation for adults aged 18 to 60, some individuals—such as young adults, those recovering from sleep debt, or people with illnesses—may need more than 9 hours occasionally
. Older adults (65+) are usually recommended to get slightly less, around 7 to 8 hours
. In addition to total sleep time, quality matters: adults typically need about 1.5 to 2 hours of deep sleep, which is crucial for physical restoration and overall well-being
. In summary:
- Adults (18-60 years): 7 to 9 hours per night
- Older adults (65+): 7 to 8 hours per night
- More than 9 hours may be appropriate in some cases
- Less than 7 hours regularly is associated with health risks
If you have concerns about your sleep duration or quality, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable
