INSOMNIA: PREVALENCE AND RELATED RISK FACTORS IN ELDERLY OUTPATIENTS

ABSTRACT Insomnia is a problem in all stages of life but is particularly common after age 65. It is defined as the inability to initiate or maintain sleep. Sleep disorders in the elderly are common and multifactorial. Several factors, including advanced age, psychosocial influences, clinical and psychiatric illnesses and the use of medications can be associates with insomnia. However, the risk factors involved in the insomnia development have not been completely identified. The privation of sleep may impair the quality of life and daytime functioning. The objective of this work is verify the prevalence of insomnia and risk factors to this complaint in geriatric outpatients of NAI (Núcleo de Atenção ao Idoso- Elderly Care Center)- UERJ, in 2005, aged 60 years or more, of both sexes. A complete assessment of insomnia and its correct evaluation are basic steps in the geriatric evaluation.