Normal sleep and healthy ageing are related, according to a study based on an analysis of the sleeping patterns of 2,226 women of over 60 years.

The study, by University of California researchers, monitored sleeping aids, daytime somnolence, napping and snoring to come to its conclusion.

It found that 20.8 percent of the women who were categorised as "successful agers" were also "good sleepers".

"Our findings reinforce the idea that good sleep is of utmost importance for good health," said Sonia Ancoli-Israel, who led the study.

Unfortunately, the study found, many older adults often get less sleep than they need. One reason is that they often have more trouble falling asleep.

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