The drive to achieve perfect sleep scores through wearable technology might be counterproductive, potentially increasing anxiety and worsening sleep quality, according to some health professionals. Devices that track sleep stages and duration are becoming increasingly popular as part of a broader wellness movement.
However, Dr. Alanna Hare, a sleep specialist, has observed that some patients' focus on data from these trackers contributes to their sleep problems. "I've noticed more patients coming to me with data from various trackers, with lots of questions about sleep that... is probably contributing to their sleep difficulties," she stated. Even after receiving medical reassurance, some patients remain concerned about their sleep metrics.
Hare noted that while increased attention to sleep as a component of wellness is positive, "sleep just does not respond well to attempts to perfect it." This perspective suggests that the very act of trying to optimize sleep can create a feedback loop of worry.
Compounding these concerns, a proposed lawsuit filed in San Francisco against Oura, a maker of sleep-tracking rings, alleges that the devices do not accurately measure sleep quality and stages. The suit claims that the devices rely on AI-generated estimates that have a low probability of being correct. In response to such allegations, Oura has stated that it "stand[s] behind our science, research and accuracy claims" and is "committed to clearly communicating what Oura measures, what it estimates, and how members should use that information."