Which of the following is the most common change in sleep patterns experienced by adults during middle age?

• A. A shift to a later bedtime and wake time
• B. A decrease in the total amount of deep sleep (slow-wave sleep)
• C. A significant increase in REM sleep duration
• D. An increase in the need for daytime naps

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the typical changes in sleep architecture that occur during middle adulthood, focusing on the stages of sleep such as REM sleep and slow-wave sleep (deep sleep).
2. Recall that slow-wave sleep (SWS) is the deepest stage of non-REM sleep and is crucial for physical restoration and memory consolidation.
3. Recognize that research shows adults in middle age commonly experience a reduction in the amount of slow-wave sleep, which affects sleep quality.
4. Consider that while total sleep time may decrease slightly, the most notable change is the decrease in deep sleep rather than a shift in bedtime or a large increase in REM sleep.
5. Evaluate the options by comparing them to known sleep pattern changes in middle age, identifying that a decrease in deep sleep is the most common and well-documented change.