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033 – Safer Treatments for Insomnia in Aging

by Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH Leave a Comment

033 – Safer Treatments for Insomnia in AgingLeslie Kernisan, MD MPH
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https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/BHWAtreatingsleepproblemsinaging.2.17.17.mp3
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In This Episode:

Dr. K explains how to safely treat insomnia in older adults, and why most seniors should avoid sleeping pills. She covers:

  • Why it’s essential to identify the cause(s) of sleep problems, before starting or continuing to use sleeping pills
  • Why over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids, such as diphenhydramine, benzodiazepines, and “z-drugs” such as zolpidem, are bad for memory and balance
  • Three proven insomnia treatments that are effective and safer than pills
  • Where to find cognitive-behavioral treatment for insomnia online
  • Approaches to treating sleep problems in people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias

Related episode: 

032 – 5 Top Causes of Sleep Problems in Aging

Related Resources:

  • How Sleep Affects Health & Changes with Aging
  • 5 Top Causes of Sleep Problems in Seniors, & Proven Ways to Treat Insomnia
  • Insomniacs Are Helped by Online Therapy, Study Finds
  • Online insomnia therapy programs: SHUTi and Sleepio
  • The Insomnia Workbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting the Sleep You Need
  • How to Manage Sleep Problems in Dementia
  • How You Can Help Someone Stop Ativan

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