{"id":58907,"date":"2023-06-22T09:00:35","date_gmt":"2023-06-22T13:00:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=58907"},"modified":"2026-02-25T21:28:08","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T02:28:08","slug":"sleep-aids-for-elderly","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/sleep-aids-for-elderly\/","title":{"rendered":"How to advise seniors on sleep aids"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders in adults over the age of 65. According to the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">up to 50%<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of older adults may experience trouble falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night. Older adults may be particularly vulnerable to problems with sleep due to stress or other causes. Left untreated, insomnia may lead to different health problems, including an increased risk of depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or someone you\u2019re caring for is experiencing insomnia, a healthcare provider may recommend various treatment options. Sleep aids for older adults are widely accessible and include over-the-counter and prescription medications. However, because of their potential side effects, these medication options should be used with caution. Continue reading to learn about medication and non-medication options to help treat insomnia in the elderly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-causes-sleep-problems-in-the-elderly\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What causes sleep problems in the elderly?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleep problems, like insomnia, can affect all aspects of life, including mental, emotional, and physical health. But what causes insomnia in the elderly? The answer may be more complex than just a single factor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As people age, they may experience natural changes to their sleep patterns. These changes may include a decrease in deep sleep, waking up more often throughout the night, and having trouble falling asleep. In addition, certain medical conditions may become more common with age, such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and chronic pain, all of which can disrupt sleep. Older adults are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/older-people%E2%80%99s-health-issues\/aging-and-medications\/aging-and-medications\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">more likely to take prescription medications<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as beta-blockers, decongestants, and corticosteroids, which may also interfere with sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain lifestyle habits can affect sleep and make it hard to have a consistent sleep schedule. These lifestyle factors may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Poor sleep hygiene: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing stimulating activities before bedtime or consuming excessive caffeine may make it harder for older adults to fall asleep or stay asleep.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Lack of physical activity: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being sedentary during the day may cause trouble sleeping, as regular exercise has been shown to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cochranelibrary.com\/cdsr\/doi\/10.1002\/14651858.CD003404\/abstract\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improve sleep quality<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in older adults.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Social isolation: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Older adults who experience loneliness or a lack of social support may be more likely to develop insomnia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Problems with sleep can worsen existing health issues, negatively affect mental health, and reduce overall quality of life. One of the first steps to finding the best sleep aid or treatment may involve finding the root causes and potential risk factors of insomnia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"older-adult-treatment-options-for-sleep\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Older adult treatment options for sleep<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are several treatment options that can potentially improve sleep in older adults, which you can recommend to your patients. These include over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription drugs, and lifestyle changes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"over-the-counter-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over-the-counter medications<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">OTC sleep aids are accessible without a prescription and are often perceived as safer and less habit-forming than prescription sleep medications. Common OTC sleep aids include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antihistamines: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Commonly found in allergy and cold medications, antihistamines such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/benadryl-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benadryl<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/diphenhydramine-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diphenhydramine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/unisom-sleeptabs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unisom<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/doxylamine-succinate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">doxylamine succinate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) may cause drowsiness and help improve sleep.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/melatonin\"><b>Melatonin<\/b><\/a><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a natural sleep aid, melatonin can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, especially for people who\u2019ve experienced changes in their circadian rhythm. It may be recommended by healthcare providers for insomnia or jet lag disorders.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/valerian-root\"><b>Valerian root<\/b><\/a><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This herbal remedy has mild sedative properties, which may aid in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep. Research has shown that it may be a safe and effective natural sleep aid.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although OTC medications don\u2019t require a prescription, they may have side effects and interactions with other medications. It&#8217;s recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using any OTC sleep aids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\t\t<div class=\"singlecare-dynamic-newsletter-wrapper sin-newsletter-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"heading\">Get our wellness newsletter<\/span>\n\t\t\t<form class=\"form-wrapper\" data-newsletter-form=\"1\" data-subsource=\"Wellness Newsletter\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"dynamic-email\">Email<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"email\" id=\"dynamic-email\" class=\"email\" required>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class=\"submit-form-btn\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Click to sign up\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/form>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"success-message\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"prescription-drugs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription drugs<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For older people with persistent sleep issues, prescription drugs may be another option. As a pharmacist, you might see patients commonly prescribed the following medications:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Benzodiazepines: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/restoril\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Restoril<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/temazepam\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">temazepam<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ativan\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ativan <\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/lorazepam\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(lorazepam<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) may help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, these medications can be habit-forming and may lead to increased risks of falls and cognitive impairment in older adults.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These medications, such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ambienhttps:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ambien\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ambien<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/zolpidem-tartrate-er\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">zolpidem<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/lunesta\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lunesta<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/eszopiclone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">eszopiclone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), work similarly to benzodiazepines but are less likely to be habit-forming.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Antidepressants: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low doses of certain antidepressants like Desyrel (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/trazodone-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">trazodone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/remeron\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remeron<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/mirtazapine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mirtazapine<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) may be used to treat insomnia in the elderly.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Older adults using prescription sleep aids may need to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider due to the risk of side effects and interactions with other medications they may be taking. Be sure to carefully go over side effects and interactions with your patients when they are prescribed these medications.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"sleep-hygiene-practices\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleep hygiene practices<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the best natural sleep aids for older adults is having a regular sleep routine. You can advise your patients on creating a comfortable sleep environment and following healthy bedtime habits. Consider giving the following tips:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool, as these conditions may help improve sleep quality.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limit exposure to screens and electronic devices before bedtime, as they emit blue light that can interfere with the body&#8217;s natural sleep-wake cycle.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep patterns.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to signal to the body that it is time for sleep.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"physical-exercise-and-relaxation-techniques\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physical exercise and relaxation techniques<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular physical activity may help <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cochranelibrary.com\/cdsr\/doi\/10.1002\/14651858.CD003404\/abstract\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improve sleep quality<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in older adults who are able to exercise. For example, moderate aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming, may help improve sleep duration and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Older adults should aim to schedule exercises during the day, preferably in the morning or afternoon, as exercising too close to bedtime may interrupt sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/wellness-and-prevention\/sleepless-nights-try-stress-relief-techniques\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relaxation techniques<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation, can also help promote better sleep. These practices can reduce stress and anxiety, which are common factors that can cause sleep problems in older adults.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"potential-risks-of-sleep-aids-for-elderly-people\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potential risks of sleep aids for elderly people<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleep aids, both prescription and OTC, may pose various risks for older adults. As people age, their bodies may process medications differently, increasing the chance of potential side effects. Older adults often have multiple chronic conditions, which may also complicate the use of sleep aids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) publishes the &#8220;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.guidelinecentral.com\/guideline\/340784\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BEERS Criteria<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,&#8221; which lists potentially harmful medications for older patients. This list includes several sleep aids that may lead to serious side effects, including falls, cognitive problems, and even death. Therefore, it\u2019s best to consult a healthcare professional before using any sleep aids, as they can recommend safer alternatives or adjust dosages to minimize risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common general side effects of sleep aids include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-medication options are often a first-line treatment for insomnia in older adults due to the potential side effects of medications. However, if medications are needed for cases of insomnia, it\u2019s important to watch for side effects and only use medications under the supervision of a healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-the-best-sleeping-pill-for-the-elderly\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the best sleeping pill for the elderly?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to finding the best sleeping pill for the elderly, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The effectiveness and safety of a sleeping pill will depend on the person\u2019s specific needs, existing medical conditions, and any potential interactions with other medications they might be taking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><b>Medication name<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Availability<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>SingleCare coupons<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ambien (zolpidem)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ambien\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ambien coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lunesta (eszopiclone)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/lunesta\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lunesta coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Desyrel (trazodone)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/trazodone-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trazodone coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unisom (doxylamine)<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">OTC<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/unisom-sleeptabs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unisom coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Melatonin<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">OTC<\/span><\/td>\n<td><a class=\"cta-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/melatonin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Melatonin coupons<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult a healthcare professional before choosing a medication. A healthcare provider can determine the proper dosage and monitor the person\u2019s response to the medication to reduce potential risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-bottom-line\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bottom line<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many older adults who struggle with sleep disorders, treatment could mean the difference between a good night\u2019s sleep and other health problems. Treatment options include natural sleep aids, prescription drugs, and sleep hygiene practices. However, a healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes first because of the potential side effects, such as sedation, an increased risk of falls, and cognitive problems. If insomnia persists, medication may be the next best option.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders in adults over the age of 65. According to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, up to 50% of older adults may experience trouble falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night. Older adults may be particularly vulnerable to problems with sleep due to stress or [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":135,"featured_media":58978,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[9340],"tags":[11278,816],"coauthors":[8669],"class_list":["post-58907","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-the-checkout","tag-singlecare-for-seniors","tag-sleep","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Advising seniors on sleep aids<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Sleep aids for elderly people include OTC medications, prescription drugs, sleep hygiene practices, and physical activity. 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