What Causes Sleeplessness In An Elderly Person?

Posted on Wed, 31 May 2017

Question: 86 yr old, 250lb,problem going to sleep,w

Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (54 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Detailed evaluation and comprehensive treatment is needed.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for trusting Healthcaremagic!
I have gone through your query and I can understand your concerns.
Insomnia(absence of sleep) is quite common in the elderly. A detailed evaluation is needed to find out the root cause for this condition.
Elderly people may feel lonely and solitary,this might lead to depression and absence of getting in to sleep.
Over the counter drugs are ineffective in most of the cases. You might require newer benzodiazepines like zolpidem for getting proper sleep. These are prescription drugs and will not be available over the counter.
I suggest you to consult a psychiatrist and you might need some counselling session and pills.
Avoid unwanted stress and anxiety.
Practice relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.
Avoid carbonated beverages and coffee at bed time.

Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr Shinas Hussain

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T