Sleep normally occurs in several stages. The sleep cycle includes: Show
The sleep cycle is repeated several times during the night. AGING CHANGES Sleep patterns tend to change as you age. Most people find that aging causes them to have a harder time falling asleep. They wake up more often during the night and earlier in the morning. Total sleep time stays the same or is slightly decreased (6.5 to 7 hours per night). It may be harder to fall asleep and you may spend more total time in bed. The transition between sleep and waking up is often abrupt, which makes older people feel like they are a lighter sleeper than when they were younger. Less time is spent in deep, dreamless sleep. Older people wake up an average of 3 or 4 times each night. They are also more aware of being awake. Older people wake up more often because they spend less time deep sleep. Other causes include needing to get up and urinate (nocturia), anxiety, and discomfort or pain from long-term (chronic) illnesses. EFFECT OF CHANGES Sleep difficulty is an annoying problem. Long-term (chronic) insomnia is a major cause of auto accidents and depression. Because older people sleep more lightly and wake up more often, they may feel deprived of sleep even when their total sleep time has not changed. Sleep deprivation can eventually cause confusion and other mental changes. It is treatable, though. You can reduce symptoms when you get enough sleep. Sleep problems are also a common symptom of depression. See a health care provider to find out whether depression or another health condition is affecting your sleep. COMMON PROBLEMS
PREVENTION Older people respond differently to medicines than do younger adults. It is very important to talk with a provider before taking sleep medicines. If possible, avoid sleep medicines. However, antidepressant medicines can be very helpful if depression affects your sleep. Some antidepressants do not cause the same side effects as sleep medicines. Sometimes, a mild antihistamine works better than a sleeping pill for relieving short-term insomnia. However, most health experts do not recommend these types of medicines for older people. Use sleep medicines (such as zolpidem, zaleplon, or benzodiazepines) only as recommended, and only for a short time. Some of these medicines can lead to dependence (needing to take the drug to function) or addiction (compulsive use despite adverse consequences). Some of these drugs build up in your body. You can develop toxic effects such as confusion, delirium, and falls if you take them for a long time. You can take measures to help you sleep:
If you cannot fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed and do a quiet activity, such as reading or listening to music. When you feel sleepy, get back in bed and try again. If you still cannot fall asleep in 20 minutes, repeat the process. Drinking alcohol at bedtime may make you sleepy. However, it is best to avoid alcohol, because it can make you wake up later in the night. RELATED TOPICS
Barczi SR, Teodorescu MC. Psychiatric and medical comorbidities and effects of medications in older adults. In: Kryger M, Roth T, Dement WC, eds. Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 151. Bliwise DL, Scullin MK. Normal aging. In: Kryger M, Roth T, Dement WC, eds. Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 3. Sterniczuk R, Rusak B. Sleep in relation to aging, frailty, and cognition. In: Fillit HM, Rockwood K, Young J, eds. Brocklehurst's Textbook of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 108. Walston JD. Common clinical sequelae of aging. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 22. Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. Which medications may be effective in managing sleep disorders?Melatonin may be as effective as clonazepam and is usually well-tolerated with few side effects. Clonazepam (Klonopin). This prescription medication, often used to treat anxiety, is also the traditional choice for treating REM sleep behavior disorder, appearing to effectively reduce symptoms.
What are 3 treatments for any sleep disorder?What are the treatments for sleep disorders?. Good sleep habits and other lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise.. Cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety about getting enough sleep.. CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine for sleep apnea.. What is the best treatment for sleeping disorder?Basic tips:. Stick to a sleep schedule. Keep your bedtime and wake time consistent from day to day, including on weekends.. Stay active. ... . Check your medications. ... . Avoid or limit naps. ... . Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol and don't use nicotine. ... . Don't put up with pain. ... . Avoid large meals and beverages before bed.. Which substance is an alternative therapy for a patient who is experiencing insomnia?Melatonin. Melatonin, a pineal-gland hormone involved in sleep regulation,78 is available over the counter primarily as a nutritional supplement, but it is also used to treat insomnia related to secondary causes, such as jet lag and shift work.
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