Recent years have seen a lot more attention directed toward people's health, the choices they make that are most conducive to a good life, and more. This is especially true for people who are older in age and therefore more vulnerable to certain medical complications.

With the heightened focus on health and lifestyle habits comes various surveys and studies that provide valuable insight. Now, some of the latest data making waves pertains to sleep, its frequency, and the consequences of inconsistent sleep patterns.

Many Americans may be shocked to learn about the information revealed in the following study.

Consistency matters big time

Upon review, the American Heart Association determined that folks who fail to go to bed and wake up at the same time on a consistent basis face a highlier likelihood of health problems like coronary artery disease or higher blood pressure.

Moreover, similar problems can emerge within individuals who suffer from sleep disruptions.

The American Heart Association arrived at this conclusion after reviewing over 2,000 adults' sleeping habits and patterns for one week. In order to track this data, each of the adults wore watches that recorded their levels of oxygen and body movements.

Individuals reviewed in this study likewise maintained sleep diaries over a one-week timeframe.

How to get a good night's rest

In a world where many people are busy with all sorts of things in their lives, consistently going to bed and waking up at the same times each day may seem easier said than done.

However, maintaining set schedules for daytime activites can make this easier. Also conducive to getting a good night's rest are the following steps:

• Having a routine before going to bed
• Steering clear of caffeine or alcohol before winding down
• Maintaining a comfortable bedroom, air temperature, etc.

People who are not used to consistent sleep patterns may not immediately jump into resting and rising at the same times each day. However, even taking one or two steps in this direction is better than doing nothing at all.

Finally, this new study from the American Heart Association only further highlights the essential role sleep plays in the life each person lives.