 |
SleepSleep Disorders Not a Normal Part of AgingAs people grow older, getting a good night’s sleep remains essential to maintaining good health, according to our interdisciplinary workshop report entitled “Sleep, Health and Aging.” The report notes that new research findings indicate that age, itself, does not predict sleep problems, but that sleep problems are more likely to occur among older people due to physical changes associated with aging. The report highlights lifestyle issues that can also affect an older person’s ability to get a good night’s sleep. These include limited exposure to sunlight, insufficient exercise and traumatic events like the death of a loved one. “Not getting the right amount of sleep can become a serious health problem, and it is not a natural part of aging,” Robert N. Butler, M.D., president and CEO of the ILC-USA, said. “A large number of older people often suffer from this medical condition and go unrecognized or are not treated appropriately.” As the study indicates, quality of sleep is directly linked to quality of life. Aside from the obvious effect of sleepiness, the development of a sleep problem can lead to memory problems, depression and a greater chance of accidental falls. To learn more, click on our Related Links, below. Back
|
ILC News
Get Involved
 |
Related Links: 
Email Story
Print Story
RSS FeedPhone: +1 212-288-1468 Email: info@ilcusa.org