Age and gender can significantly impact sleep levels. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can disrupt sleep patterns in females. Males generally have more deep sleep, while females tend to experience more REM sleep. Sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are more common in older adults and can affect the quality of their rest. Adolescents naturally shift towards later bedtimes and waking times due to circadian rhythm. Stress levels and environmental factors such as noise or temperature can also influence the stages of sleep achieved. Understanding these factors can help individuals tailor their sleeping habits to promote better rest.