Older People Feel Younger in the Morning, Study Finds

By Health Correspondent

People over the age of 60 feel younger and more energised in the morning, according to new research highlighting the best time of day for wellbeing and important decisions.

The study, carried out by psychologists at Nottingham Trent University, looked at 86 adults aged between 60 and 81.

Participants completed questionnaires twice a day — once in the morning and again later in the day — to track how their feelings and alertness changed.

Researchers found that most participants identified as “morning people” and reported feeling noticeably younger and less tired earlier in the day compared to the evening.

The study also explored attitudes towards ageing and openness to new ideas.

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While general feelings about ageing remained consistent throughout the day, those who felt more fatigued were less likely to embrace change.

Higher levels of tiredness were also linked to increased stress, anxiety, and lower mood, suggesting that energy levels play a key role in overall wellbeing.

Lead researcher Dr Stephen Badham said the findings highlight the importance of timing daily activities to match when people feel most alert.

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He explained:

“This study is not about making sure older adults get more sleep, but rather to explore whether it may be more beneficial to engage with activities when they are most alert.

“Our findings suggest that motivation to be active or to change behaviour may fluctuate with alertness and sense of wellbeing throughout the day.”

He added that mornings may be the ideal time for tasks requiring focus, such as making important medical, financial or lifestyle decisions.

The research also suggests organisations should consider people’s natural daily rhythms when offering services, as not everyone follows the same pattern.

“While most older adults are morning-oriented, not everyone is. Simply asking about preferred times of day could improve engagement,” Dr Badham said.

The findings offer a simple but powerful message — when it comes to feeling your best later in life, timing really matters.

Read the full paper People over 60 feel younger in the morning: A good time of day to enhance wellbeing?

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