Sleep disorders in the elderly
Schmitt, L.; Dessibourg, C.; Raynaud, J.P.
La Revue du Praticien 44(11): 1436-1438
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0035-2640 PMID: 7939208 Document Number: 438456
Insomnia dominates the sleep disorders of the elderly. Sleep apnea, the restless legs syndrome and nocturnal agitation represent other facets. After eliminating the possibility of painful or degenerative organic disease, iatrogenic cause and mode of life, other symptoms should be sought, namely mental and personality-related. Investigation requires polysomnogram recording, supported by careful history-taking, including objective and subjective factors. Treatment includes notions of diet, biological rhythm and desynchronisation. It should take into consideration the deleterious effects of prolonged use of certain psychotherapeutic agents.