[Insomnia in the elderly]. / Insomnies chez les personnes âgées: quelle approche?

In older persons, insomnia is a frequent problem with significant functional and psychological consequences. Use of over-the-counter medications is frequent and increases the risk of adverse events. Management of insomnia is based on a systematic evaluation that leads to targeted etiologic treatment when feasible. Non-pharmacological approach, including sleep hygiene and cognitive-behavioral therapy, remains effective in older persons. Hypnotics use remains nevertheless highly prevalent among elderly patients and withdrawal should be attempted after informing these patients of these drugs numerous side-effects.