Recognizing Sleep Disorders Symptoms in Older Adults
By Dr. Steve Paul Manjaly Sleep disorders are common in older adults and often go unnoticed or are mistaken for normal aging. Recognizing the symptoms early can lead to effective treatment and improved quality of life. Common Sleep Disorders in Older Adults Older adults often experience various sleep disorders. Insomnia , marked by difficulty falling or staying asleep, is the most common. Sleep apnea , where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, can lead to fatigue and serious health issues. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) causes uncomfortable leg sensations, especially at night. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder leads to physically acting out dreams. Circadian rhythm disorders , such as advanced sleep phase, disrupt normal sleep-wake cycles. Find geriatric doctors near you 2. Key Symptoms to Watch For Important signs of sleep disorders include frequent nighttime awakenings, excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring or gasping during sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and waki...