The Role of Melatonin in Age-Related Sleep Changes
One of the most important factors behind this shift is melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate the sleep–wake cycle. As people grow older, the body produces less melatonin, making sleep lighter and more fragile. By the early morning hours, melatonin levels can drop enough to signal the brain that it is time to wake up—even if the body still needs more rest.
Older adults also become more sensitive to minor disturbances. Light from outside, digital screens, or even subtle sounds can interrupt
