ANCSLEEP BLOG

Sleep problems become increasingly common with age. Many older adults experience difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently during the night, or feeling tired despite spending enough time in bed. Because of these challenges, medications are sometimes considered when lifestyle changes and behavioral treatments are not enough.

One medication frequently used in older adults is trazodone. Although originally developed as an antidepressant, trazodone is often prescribed at lower doses to help with insomnia.

However, trazodone is not specifically approved by the FDA as a sleep medication, and its use in older adults requires careful consideration. Aging changes how the body processes medications, and some side effects may be more concerning for seniors.

Understanding how trazodone works, when it may be appropriate, and what risks to consider can help older adults and their families make informed decisions about sleep treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is widely considered one of the most effective treatments for chronic insomnia. Unlike sleep medications that primarily target symptoms, CBT-I focuses on changing the thoughts, behaviors, and habits that contribute to ongoing sleep problems.

For many people, CBT-I leads to significant improvements in sleep quality and daytime functioning. However, some individuals complete CBT-I and continue to struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling rested.

If CBT-I has not worked for you, it does not mean that your insomnia cannot improve. It may mean that additional evaluation is needed to understand what is preventing healthy sleep.

Persistent insomnia often has multiple contributing factors, and finding the right combination of treatments may require a more personalized approach.

Sleep troubles are a common struggle—whether it’s difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrested. While many people first try changing habits or using sleep aids, therapy can be a powerful and often overlooked tool to tackle the root causes of sleep problems.

Here’s how therapy can help you get better sleep and wake up refreshed.