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TUESDAY, Jan. 20 (HealthDayNews) -- Cognitive behavioral therapy may be a better choice than sleeping pills for elderly people with insomnia, says a British study in the current issue of Sleep Medicine Review.
The researchers reviewed previous research to assess the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral treatments (CBT) for people older than 60 and found consistent sleep improvements for people who had CBT.
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people change poor sleep habits and challenges negative thoughts, attitudes and beliefs about sleep. For example, people are taught to improve their sleep habits by: reducing caffeine intake after 4 p.m.; taking the proper steps to prepare for sleep; or practicing muscle relaxation skills.
Helping people overcome anxiety about insomnia is another CBT intervention shown to be effective.
"Older people are often prescribed a range of drugs for their health problems, many of which have side effects," Dr. Paul Montgomery, a researcher at Oxford University, says in a prepared statement.
"Such side effects are just one reason why there is an argument to be made for clinical use of non-pharmacological treatments. Further research into which elements of cognitive behavioral therapy are most useful is needed. To increase long-term effect, it may be necessary to do 'top-up' sessions at regular intervals. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be useful in preventive education for sleep disorders," Montgomery says.
More information
Here's where you can learn more about how to get a good night's sleep.
(SOURCE: Oxford University, news release, Jan. 19, 2004)
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