Insomnia is a very prevalent sleep disorder amongst older adults, and can be described as when an individual finds it challenging to fall asleep, difficulty maintaining sleep, or may wake up too early and not have the ability to go back to sleep[1]. The population of older adults continues to expand rapidly from the current 205 million persons aged 60 years or older, to a projected 2 billion by 2050, and one of the most common sleep disturbances in the older population is insomnia[2].
Insomnia is part of a much bigger picture when it comes to the effects it can have on our brain. Insomnia has the ability to affect brain hormonal pathways and lead to individuals entering emotional states that can be detrimental to their overall mental and physical health. Here at TSGQ we can assist in evaluating the nature, frequency, evolution, and duration of symptoms, as
well as the response to treatment if prescribed by a physician.
There are also several non-invasive options for the treatment of insomnia, these can include relaxation techniques, improving sleep hygiene, and cognitive behavioral therapy. These options are also effective in managing insomnia for extended periods of time, even in patients with cognitive impairment. There are also behavioral factors that can assist in decreasing episodes of insomnia which can include abstaining from daytime naps, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, reducing substances such as caffeine, nicotine and alcohol, and ensuring a form of exercise is undertaken at least 6 hours prior to bedtime. Behavioral factors, such as the use of electronic devices before going to bed, should also be addressed because these can suppress bedtime melatonin production, adversely affecting circadian rhythm[3].
References
1. American Psychiatric AssociationDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th
edArlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.7172
2. United Nations Department of Economics and Social Affairs: Population DivisionWorld
population aging: 1950-2050. Accessed May 23, 2017
http://www.un.org/esa/population/publications/worldageing19502050/.
3. Wood B, Rea MS, Plitnick B, Figueiro MGLight level and duration of exposure determine the
impact of self-luminous tablets on melatonin suppression. Appl Ergon; 2013;442:237-240,
22850476.
