ABSTRACT
This chapter provides examples rather than an exhaustive list of events and processes which can disrupt sleep in later life. Whether internal or external, organic or personal, many of these events and processes will be superimposed upon existing age-related reductions in the continuity, depth, and duration of sleep. The chapter draws attention not only to the variety but also the complexity of events which can underlie disturbed sleep in old age. The emphasis given here to locations inside and outside the body, incidentally, is not meant to infer any philosophical distinction but is merely a convenient although not altogether perfect way of grouping a number of otherwise unrelated events. Interest in respiratory problems during sleep has increased recently with much attention focusing upon the condition of sleep apnoea. Diuretic drugs increase urinary output and are prescribed when the elimination of body fluid is considered beneficial as, for example, in heart failure or in the management of high blood pressure.
