Study: Adults 50+ Who Only Get 5 Hours Of Sleep At Higher Risk Of Chronic Issues

New research shows getting less sleep could mean more health problems for older adults.

The research published in the journal PLOS Medicine finds adults over 50 who get five hours of sleep each night are at higher risk of developing more than one chronic disease, such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease. That's compared to people who sleep seven hours.

The study looked at nearly 8,000 healthy people. At age 50, participants who slept five hours or less a night had a 30% risk of developing multiple chronic conditions. And the risk increased as people got older. 32% at 60 and 40% at 70.

Researchers say the study highlights that good sleep hygiene is important as we get older.

To get a good night's rest:

- Try to go to sleep and get up at the same time each day

- Avoid napping later in the day

- Turn off the tv and other devices in the bedroom.

Experts recommend that older adults get about seven to nine hours of sleep each night. The CDC estimates more than a third of American adults are not getting enough sleep on a regular basis.

If you are having trouble sleeping, experts say to talk to your doctor. Certain health conditions and medications can impact sleep.