Older adults need about the same amount of sleep as younger people. However, they are more likely to achieve it in separate episodes; they take naps and get less sleep at night. The sleep of an older adult is less deep. This may cause early awakening and complaints of sleep disturbance.

The causes of sleep disturbance in older adults include chronic health problems such as arthritis, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some adults take medications such as diuretics and theophylline that can cause sleep disturbance. Sleep disturbance, related to illness and psychological stress, is manifested by change in behavior performance, increased irritability, listlessness, and verbal complaints of not feeling well rested.

To promote rest and sleep, direct the patient to assume a comfortable position and provide adequate pain control to facilitate breathing. If possible, seek assistance from the patient’s licensed health care provider to carefully assess the time of medication administration and the effect on sleep. Develop a plan with the patient and family to allow for more rest: limit interruptions during the night, provide a quiet environment with a comfortable room temperature, and limit the number of visitors and the durations of visits. Encourage the patient to ambulate early in the evening. You may provide a glass of milk 30 minutes before bedtime unless contraindicated. Massage the patient’s back, freshen linens, reduce noise, and dim lights. Administer hypnotic as ordered. Have the patient void.

Sleep restores a patient’s energy and feeling of well-being. The reduced consciousness during sleep provides time for repair and recovery of body systems for the period of wakefulness.