“When we start looking at the longer-term data that is collected in those same patients, only then will we be able to determine whether or not the intervention was effective at changing total sleep time. At 4 weeks I think it's just too short, and it's really a reflection of the artifact that is imposed by the sleep restriction,” she told this newspaper.
Dr. Germain said institutions might have to be willing to make some modification such as allowing individualized lights-out for specific residents.
They also might need to provide quiet activities for residents who need to stay up late or get up early (because of their sleep-restriction regimen) so they do not disturb anyone else.