Why Older People Wake Up So Early
Huff PostWillie B. Thomas via Getty Images There's a reason why older people tend to wake up earlier in the mornings — it's a part of the natural aging process. “If there’s cataracts, the evening light doesn’t go into the eyes as much, so, according to the brain, sunset is earlier than when it actually set,” Parthasarathy said. “There is some evidence that cataract removal surgery can help improve sleep quality and duration by helping those light cues get through,” Lustig said. Lustig added you should avoid alcohol before bed — “while that nightcap might make you sleepy, it actually disrupts the quality of your sleep.” Additionally, she said exercise can help you get better sleep and the morning sun can help your circadian clock follow the sun’s rise and set cues.