Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep that results in daytime problems.
It occurs more often in older adults, half of whom have some difficulty going to sleep, staying asleep, or both. Problems with sleep often point to poor sleeping habits, but can be a sign of underlying physical or mental problems. Not only is insomnia more common among older adults, but other sleep disorders such as restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movements, and sleep apnea are also more prevalent among the elderly. Most healthy older people don't usually have difficulties related to these changes, but people with medical and psychological disorders are more likely to develop sleep problems. Chronic illness or pain can cause insomnia.