Sleep and Sleep Disorders

Humans spend one-third of their lives sleeping, indicating the vital importance of sleep for health and survival. The specific characteristics of normal sleep change across the lifespan. In addition to certain age-related changes in sleep, other factors play a large role in sleep disturbancesSleep disturbances among older adults, including comorbidities, medications, changes in lifestyle, and other factors. Older adults who sleep poorly take more medications, have more clinician visits, and report worse health than their counterparts who sleep well. In addition, certain primary sleep disorders are more common or particularly important in older people. Recognition, testing, and appropriate management of common sleep problems in older people is essential. When considering treatment, risks, and benefits must be carefully considered, particularly in the frail older adult where adverse effects of some treatments may be particularly problematic. However, advanced age is not a reason to limit testing and treatment of sleep problems, since addressing sleep disorders in older adults can lead to significant improvements in their health and quality of life.