[Studies on sleep quality in old age]

A survey of 480 randomly chosen men and women over 65 years of age observed complaints concerning the quality of sleep in 26%, the use of sleeping drugs in 33%; complaints and/or drugs were found in 45% of cases. On the average complaints were more often made by women. The percentage of men complaining increased from 65 to 90+ years. In the group over 90 years of age both sexes showed the same frequency. The quality of sleep was correlated with self-rated health-status, mobility and impairment especially of the cardiovascular system. No correlations were found with contentment, place of residence, noise, outdoor exercise and socioeconome status. Sleeping drugs were most effective in subjects with cerebral impairment and of least effect when subjects suffered from cardiovascular trouble.