Americans Have ‘Screen Time’ Until Bedtime

Some sleep experts say people should shut off the TV, computer and other electronics an hour before bedtime. But very few Americans are heeding that advice, a survey shows. The National Sleep Foundation released its annual Sleep in America poll March 7. In all, 95% of those surveyed said they used an electronic device within an hour of bedtime at least a few times a week. About 63% said they don’t get enough sleep during the week. Experts say observing an “electronics curfew” and dimming lights can help people wind down and get ready to sleep. But the survey does not prove that the electronics use caused the loss of sleep. The survey found that 2 out of 3 people ages 30 to 64 watch TV before bedtime. People under 30 watch less late-night TV. They are much more likely to talk on a cell phone or send text messages before going to bed. HealthDay News wrote about the poll.