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Published on: 11/17/2025

Do sleep disorders get worse with age?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, sleep disorders often become more common and can worsen as people age. This is due to changes in sleep patterns and health conditions that are more frequent in older adults.

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Explanation

As people get older, they often experience changes in their sleep patterns. These changes can make it harder for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Reasons for Worse Sleep in Older Age:

  1. Sleep Pattern Changes: Older adults may have lighter sleep and wake up more often during the night.
  2. Health Conditions: Issues like arthritis, heart disease, and depression, which are more common in older people, can affect sleep.
  3. Medications: Some medicines taken by older adults can cause sleep problems.
  4. Lifestyle Changes: Retirement and less physical activity can impact sleep quality.

Common Sleep Disorders in the Elderly:

  • Insomnia: Trouble falling or staying asleep.
  • Sleep Apnea: Breathing stops and starts during sleep.
  • Restless Legs Syndrome: Uncomfortable sensations in the legs that make it hard to sleep.

If you or someone you know is having trouble with sleep, it's important to talk to a doctor. For any mental health concerns, visit 988lifeline.org.

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