Sleep is essential for life. Aging is a process and is a subject to semantic confusion. There are gradual changes in the various organ systems of the body and sleep is no exception. Sleep patterns change subjectively and polysomnographically with ageing. Sleep disorders are very common in the elderly population. Medical illnesses which are frequent in elderly also have adverse effect on the sleep patterns. The prevalence of sleep apnea increases with ageing. Sleep apnea itself is a risk factor for the development of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, strokes, diabetes and dementia. Recognition and treatment of sleep disorders is highly rewarding.
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