A person generally needs about 10% to 25% of their total sleep time to be deep sleep. For most adults who sleep 7 to 9 hours per night, this equates to roughly 55 to 110 minutes of deep sleep. The amount of deep sleep tends to decrease with age, with children and teenagers requiring more deep sleep than adults.
Deep Sleep Amount by Age
- Adults (18-64 years): 55 to 110 minutes (13% to 23% of total sleep)
- Older adults (65+ years): Around 45 to 90 minutes, less than younger adults
- Children and teens need 1.2 to 4 hours depending on age
Importance of Deep Sleep
Deep sleep is crucial for physical restoration, tissue repair, immune strengthening, muscle recovery, and overall feeling rested and alert. It is the most rejuvenating stage of sleep and typically occurs more prominently in the early sleep cycles at night.
Summary
- Aim for 7-9 hours of total sleep.
- 13% to 23%, or about 55-110 minutes, should be deep sleep for healthy adults.
- Deep sleep declines naturally with age but remains important for health and recovery.
This guidance matches expert consensus and recent health sources on sleep needs.
