Sleep Disorders in Older Adults: What You Need to Know

How Sleep Changes With Age

After age 60, sleep architecture changes significantly: deep sleep decreases by 70%, it becomes harder to fall asleep, nighttime awakenings increase, and circadian rhythms shift earlier.

Common Sleep Disorders in Seniors

• Insomnia: Affects 50% of older adults
• Sleep Apnea: Risk increases with age and weight gain
• Restless Leg Syndrome: More common in seniors
• REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Acting out dreams during sleep
• Sundowning: Increased confusion and agitation in late afternoon/evening

Medication Considerations

Many medications affect sleep: diuretics (nighttime urination), beta-blockers (insomnia), steroids (alertness), and some antidepressants. Talk to your doctor about timing medications for minimal sleep disruption.

Sleep Strategies for Seniors

Maintain consistent sleep/wake times, get morning sunlight exposure, stay physically active, limit daytime napping to 20 minutes, and create a safe sleep environment to prevent falls.