Washington, Aug. 17 (SANA)People who feel older than theiractual agemay be more likely to experience insomnia and irregularsleepand report poorer health, according to a study by researchers at the U.S. National Sleep Foundation.

The study examined the relationship between perceived age and sleep among 3,177 adults with an average age of 42.8, Sputnik reported on Sunday.

Researchers asked participants to report their actual age and how old they felt, as well as answer questions about sleep quality,insomnia,depression, anxiety and their physical and overall health. The study, co-authored by clinical psychologist and National Sleep Foundation Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs Joseph M. Dzierzewski, was published in the journal Sleep in May.

Participants who felt older than their actual age reported more symptoms of insomnia and sleep disturbances, less regular sleep patterns and greater disruption to daytime activities.

The association remained even after researchers accounted for factors including actual age, gender,depression and anxiety.

Researchers said poor or irregular sleep could contribute to fatigue, lower energy and difficulty concentrating, potentially influencing how people perceive their health and age.

They cautioned that the findings show an association rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship between feeling older and sleep problems. However, perceived age could provide an additional indicator for understanding links between sleep and overall health.

The researchers said maintaining good-quality, regular sleep could supportphysical and mental healthand improve daily functioning.