Sleep tracker use nears 50%, AASM survey finds 

DARIEN, Ill. - Nearly half of adults (48%) have used a sleep tracking device, such as a smartwatch or app, to monitor their sleep quality and duration – up from 35% in 2023, according to a new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). 

What’s more, the majority of adults (55%) are acting based on what they learn from a sleep tracker and changing their behaviors. 

"We're seeing a significant shift in how Americans approach sleep health, and it's encouraging that so many people are investing time and energy into understanding their sleep habits," said Dr. Shalini Paruthi, AASM spokesperson and member of the Emerging Technology Committee. "Sleep trackers help people recognize that adequate duration of sleep and quality sleep are just as important as nutrition and exercise for overall health." 

The survey reveals that men (56%) are more likely than women (40%) to use a sleep tracker and are more likely to change behavior based on what they have learned. Additionally, men (20%) are more likely than women (12%) to have spent between $200 to $500 on consumer sleep products (excluding money spent on a mattress). 

However, an influx of daily sleep advice may create an unintended consequence. According to the survey, most adults (76%) have lost sleep due to worries about sleep problems. This worry, also referred to as “sleep anxiety” or “orthosomnia,” may be preventing individuals from getting the recommended seven or more hours of sleep each night, AASM says. 

"Sleep trackers can be valuable tools for raising awareness about sleep health and motivating positive changes in sleep habits," said Paruthi. "However, it's important that tracking enhances sleep and doesn’t cause more stress about it. If you find yourself lying awake worrying about your sleep duration or quality, it may be time to step back and consult with a health care professional about your concerns." 

When using a sleep tracker, the AASM recommends the following best practices: 

• Wear or use the tracker consistently to establish an accurate baseline. 
• Focus on the metrics that matter most, like sleep duration, consistent bedtime and wake times, and awakenings in the night. 
• Make small adjustments to routines to see what works. 
• Only check data in the morning – never at night, and don’t obsess over it. 

FMI: https://aasm.org/about/newsroom/.