Sleep is a basic biological function of the brain, which is essential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In aging, there is a progressive constriction of homeostatic reserves of the body. Many factors influence the aging process. Aging produces architectural changes in sleep that affect its quality and quantity. Sleep alterations of aging coupled with several body system changes exert their influences on the aging process. There is a close association between insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing, cytokines, insulin resistance, atherogenesis, and aging. It is important to recognize and treat sleep disorders in the elderly, as these interventions may help in retarding the aging process.
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