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Sleep apnea and periodic movements in an aging sample
Journal of Gerontology
|July 1, 1985
Summary
Sleep apnea and periodic movements in sleep (PMS) are common in older adults. PMS was associated with significantly reduced sleep time in this elderly population study.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sleep Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Sleep disorders are prevalent in the elderly population.
- Understanding the specific prevalence of sleep apnea and periodic movements in sleep (PMS) is crucial for geriatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of sleep apnea and PMS in adults aged 65 and older.
- To explore the relationship between PMS and sleep duration in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- 145 elderly volunteers underwent telephone and home interviews.
- Portable sleep recordings were conducted using Medilog and Respitrace systems.
- Sleep apnea and PMS were classified based on apnea and myoclonus indices.
Main Results:
- 18% of participants met research criteria for sleep apnea (apnea index > 5).
- 34% met criteria for periodic movements in sleep (PMS) (myoclonus index > 5).
- 10% had both sleep apnea and PMS; individuals with PMS slept significantly less.
Conclusions:
- Sleep apnea and PMS are common findings in elderly adults, though not clinical diagnoses in this study.
- Periodic movements in sleep significantly impact sleep duration in older individuals.
- Further research is warranted to explore clinical implications and interventions for sleep disorders in the elderly.