The New Year & Your Journey to Better Sleep

How To Make 2026 Your Best Year of Rest Yet

As 2026 begins, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wellness goals, and there’s no better place
to start than with sleep. Restful, consistent sleep is the foundation of good health, but for many,
it’s often overlooked in favor of more visible wellness habits. This year, make sleep a priority.
When using CPAP therapy, small, achievable goals can lead to long-term gains in how you feel
and function each day.

Why Sleep Should Be A Resolution

Sleep affects everything from your immune system and memory to mood and heart health. For
individuals managing sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, effective therapy can be
life changing. However, even without a diagnosis, adopting better sleep habits can significantly
improve your quality of life.

Starting with simple, realistic goals can help you stay motivated and avoid the all-or-nothing
mindset that often derails New Year’s resolutions. With the right tools and support, you can set
yourself up for a healthier, more energized year. 

Sample Goals To Improve Your Sleep In 2026

Aim for Consistency
Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. Your body’s internal clock thrives
on routine, and keeping a consistent sleep schedule supports better quality rest and easier
mornings.

Improve CPAP Adherence
If you’re using positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, aim for at least 6–7 hours of usage each
night. Consider setting a goal to increase your nightly usage by 15–30 minutes if you’ve
struggled with adherence in the past. Track your progress through your device’s data or with
help from your care team.

Replace Aging Equipment
Start the year with fresh supplies. If your mask, tubing, or filters are worn or more than three
months old, replacing them can enhance comfort and performance. Set calendar reminders to
check and replace supplies every 90 days as a routine.

Establish a Wind-Down Routine
Create a 30-minute routine to unwind before bed. This might include reading, meditation, gentle
stretching, or turning off electronics. Reducing screen time and stimulating activities before bed
helps your body prepare for sleep.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Space
Make your bedroom a sanctuary for rest. Keep the room cool, quiet, and dark. Upgrade your
pillow or blackout curtains if needed andd, and remove distractions like TVs or bright lights.

Check In With Your Provider
Schedule a follow-up with your sleep specialist or respiratory therapist to discuss your therapy
progress and address any issues. Regular check-ins ensure your treatment remains effective
and aligned with your goals. 

Rethinking Sleep Through Habits, Not Myths

Apria offers tools, resources, and professional support to help you succeed with your sleep
goals. Our team is here to help you stay on track in your journey to better sleep. Make 2026 the
year you wake up feeling your best. With achievable goals and the proper support, better sleep
isn’t just a resolution; it’s a lifestyle change worth keeping.

Ready to get started? Explore Apria’s Sleep Care services and take your first step toward better sleep
today.

References:

Cai, Yi, Priyanka Tripuraneni, Arushi Gulati, Erika M Stephens, Dang-Khoa Nguyen,
Megan L Durr, and Jolie L Chang. “Patient-Defined Goals for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Treatment.” Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy
of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, October 2022.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9527355/

Chaput, Jean-Philippe, Caroline Dutil, Ryan Featherstone, Robert Ross, Lora
Giangregorio, Travis J Saunders, Ian Janssen, et al. “Sleep Timing, Sleep Consistency,
and Health in Adults: A Systematic Review.” Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism
= Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme, October 2020.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33054339/

Sunwoo, Bernie Y, Matthew Light, and Atul Malhotra. “Strategies to Augment Adherence in
the Management of Sleep-Disordered Breathing.” Respirology (Carlton, Vic.), April 2020.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6940560/

Zhong, Charlie, Matthew Masters, Sidney M Donzella, W Ryan Diver, and Alpa V Patel.
“Electronic Screen Use and Sleep Duration and Timing in Adults.” JAMA network open,
March 3, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11950897/