Sleep Disorder: Insomnia in Older People

Complaints about sleep disturbances are common among adults and tend to increase with age. Difficulty sleeping in older people is a condition marked by changes in the quantity and quality of sleep, leading to discomfort that disrupts daily activities. One of the most common sleep disorders experienced by older people is insomnia. Insomnia in this population includes difficulty falling asleep (sleep onset problems), difficulty maintaining deep sleep (deep maintenance problems), and waking up too early (early morning awakening/EMA). If left untreated, insomnia in older people can lead to other problems such as poor physical condition and a weakened immune system.

Causes of Insomnia in Older People

• Stress due to concerns about health conditions, loss of employment, bereavement, or family issues

• Anxiety and depression

• Side effects of medication use

• Consumption of caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee, tea, soda, or alcohol, which can increase energy and reduce drowsiness

• Smoking habits, as nicotine can keep individuals awake and alert

• Medical conditions that cause discomfort such as pain, difficulty breathing, chronic lung disease, heart disease, hypertension, or nocturia (frequent urination at night), which can disrupt sleep cycles

• An unfavorable or uncomfortable environment

• Poor eating patterns, such as consuming heavy meals before bedtime

To manage insomnia, older people are encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle and practice good sleep hygiene. This includes improving dietary habits, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding activities that can lower sleep quality, such as excessive smartphone use. If the condition becomes severe, it is advisable to seek medical help from a healthcare facility.