How Aging Affects Our Daily Rhythms: Insights from the SOMMA Study
As we age, our daily patterns of rest and activity, known as circadian rhythms, undergo significant changes. The Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA) has delved into these alterations, tracking the movements of over 800 older adults. By employing wrist-worn devices that monitor activity round-the-clock, researchers have unveiled how our biological clocks adjust with age. Interestingly, these patterns are not uniform; women, for instance, maintain stronger and more consistent daily rhythms compared to men.
The research brings to light that as we grow older, our circadian rhythms—essentially our body's internal clock that dictates when we feel alert or sleepy—tend to become less pronounced. This "dampening" means that the differences between our most and least active times of the day shrink. Certain lifestyle and sociodemographic factors, like being in a committed relationship or having a stable financial situation, correlate with more robust rhythms. Surprisingly, higher education levels were linked with weaker rhythms, suggesting a complex interplay between lifestyle, social factors, and our internal clocks.
This exploration into how our daily patterns evolve with age not only broadens our understanding of aging but also underscores the importance of tailoring our lifestyles to support our circadian health. Keeping active and fostering social and financial stability might help strengthen our daily rhythms, potentially improving our overall health and quality of life as we age. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of behavior, sociology, and biology, offering actionable insights for a healthier aging process.
