Geriatric Sleep Disorder

Taking more time to fall asleep
Spending too much time in bed
Difficulty maintaining sleep
Taking more naps during the day
Daytime sleepiness
Frequent awakenings
Decreased satisfaction with nighttime sleep
Difficulty getting back to sleep
Difficulty in concentrating
Fatigue
Visit a Neurologist or Psychiatrist to be diagnosed and treated properly, If you or one of your family have any of these symptoms

Insomnia and sleep disturbance can be caused by different reasons such as :

Circadian rhythm changes in elderly
Other sleep disorders (ex: periodic limb movement syndrome, Sleep-related breathing disorder)
Diseases (ex: hyperthyroidism, arthritis)
Psychiatric illness (ex: Depression, anxiety)
Dementia
Using many medications
Poor sleep hygiene
Alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco use

Diagnosis depends on the symptoms and clinical history in addition to other diagnostic tests such as :

Physical and neurological examination : To exclude any other condition causing these symptoms.
Diagnostic criteria : Certain conditions should be fulfilled to confirm the diagnosis.

Non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic methods are used to treat insomnia.

Non-pharmacological :

Lifestyle modifications :

Keeping a regular sleep schedule
Avoid daytime naps
Avoid caffeine alcohol, and smoking after lunch
Doing exercise
Avoid spending too much time in bed
Getting out of bed if the person is unable to sleep
Limiting liquids in the evening
Eating a light snack before going to bed
Avoid using the bed except when the person needs to sleep (ex : avoid sitting on the bed for reading, working, or lounging)
Cognitive behavioral therapy : A type of psychotherapy that teaches the patients how to deal with negative thoughts that interferes with sleep.

Medications :

Some medications are useful in treating this condition such as :

Antidepressants: Trazodone, Mirtazapine.
Sedatives: Clonazepam, Zolpidem tartrate.
Herbal supplements: Melatonin