Sleep disorders in the elderly.

Sleep disorders are difficult to distinguish from changes in sleep typically occurring after age 60. Sleep laboratory evaluation is needed to differentiate normal sleep alterations from the similar but more severe symptoms of depression or organic brain syndrome, and to detect sleep apnea, the most common sleep disorder found in geriatric patients. This disorder may be fatal, especially if a hypnotic drug is prescribed. Since biologic rhythms are easily disturbed in the elderly, education about sleep habits may be the most helpful therapy.