How does our sleep change as we age?

Dr. Jennifer Martin discusses sleep and the elderly, highlighting the changes in sleep patterns as people age. She explains that the internal clock shifts, causing older adults to have a hard time staying awake in the evening and waking up early in the morning. She debunks the myth that older people need less sleep and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Dr. Martin also discusses common sleep disorders in the elderly, such as sleep apnea and insomnia, and the challenges of using sleep medications. She recommends cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) as an effective treatment for sleep problems in older adults. Additionally, she addresses the impact of living situations on sleep and provides tips for improving sleep in assisted living facilities and hospitals.