Geriatric Sleep Disorder
Geriatric sleep disorders, especially insomnia, are common among older adults and often affect their overall health and well-being. Sleep difficulties in the elderly may be related to changes in the body's internal clock, medical conditions, or medication use. These disorders can lead to poor quality of life and increase the risk of falls, cognitive decline, and depression.
Symptoms
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Frequent awakenings during the night
- Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Restlessness or tossing and turning in bed
Causes
- Age-related changes in sleep patterns
- Chronic health conditions (e.g., arthritis, diabetes)
- Medications that affect sleep
- Poor sleep hygiene
Treatment
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep hygiene, regular exercise, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective non-pharmacological treatment. In some cases, sleep medications or melatonin supplements may be prescribed, but they should be used with caution in older adults.