Why Many Older Adults Wake Up at 3 A.M.—And What It Reveals About Changing Sleep Patterns
For many older adults, the night seems to follow an unexpected script. Just when sleep should be deepest, their eyes open—often at the exact same hour, around 3 a.m. The room is quiet, the world is still, and yet the mind is suddenly alert. This experience can feel confusing or even concerning, especially when it happens repeatedly. But for millions of people over 60, waking at this hour is not unusual. In fact, it may reflect natural changes happening inside…