Sleep disturbances in aging

Abstract

This chapter discusses the sleep disturbances in aging. Human sleep patterns reflect characteristic changes in brain wave activity that can be quantified by electroencephalography (EEG) and categorized into two distinct brain states: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The epidemiology of sleep disturbances in older adults is also presented in the chapter. The sleep disorders commonly found in this age group are also described. Aging is accompanied by an increasing susceptibility to sleep disturbances. Normal age-related changes in the human sleep system increase the propensity for developing sleep problems in late life. The prevalence of insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), circadian rhythm disorders, and sleep-related movement disorders increases substantially in late-life. In addition, normal age-related changes in sleep architecture create a fragmented and light sleep pattern that sets the stage for sleep complaints in this population. Sleep disturbance in older adults may be associated with poorer quality of life, dependence on hypnotic medication, increased risk of falls, increased morbidity, impaired cognitive performance, and daytime somnolence. The assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of sleep disorders are reviewed in the chapter with a focus on issues relevant to older adults.