Most people find that aging causes them to have a harder time falling asleep, and that they awaken more often. It may be harder to fall asleep. Less time is spent in deep, dreamless sleep. Older people average 3 or 4 awakenings each night, with increased recall of being awake. Because sleep is lighter and awakenings more frequent, older people may feel sleep deprived even when total sleep time has not changed.
Sleep deprivation can eventually cause confusion and other mental changes .
It is treatable, and symptoms should lessen when adequate sleep is obtained. Other sleep disorders , such as narcolepsy or hypersomnia , can also occur. Sleep apnea , where the breathing stops for a time during sleep, can cause severe problems. The elderly respond differently to medications than younger adults, so it is VERY important to consult with a health care provider before taking medications for sleep. Avoid sleep medications if at all possible.