Many people experience problems sleeping as they get older. Irene Gilsenan describes some practical strategies that nurses can use to help patients achieve a good night’s rest in hospital

Insomnia or disturbed sleep is experienced by many older people and has adverse effects on physical and psychological health. Nurses should be aware of insomnia and how they can help patients to get a good night’s sleep. This article first examines normal sleep patterns and then insomnia. It discusses what nurses can do to assess sleep disturbances and suggests practical strategies to promote quality sleep in inpatients and care home residents.