Prevalence of insomnia and related factors in individuals aged 80 years and over: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of insomnia and identify associated sociodemographic and clinical factors among individuals aged 80 years and older. METHODS: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between October and November 2025 in the Advanced Age Unit of Elazığ City Hospital, Turkey. A total of 419 participants aged ≥80 years were enrolled. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The presence and severity of insomnia were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index. An Insomnia Severity Index score ≥8 was accepted as indicative of insomnia. RESULTS: The prevalence of insomnia was 38.2%. Insomnia was significantly more frequent among women compared with men (p=0.010). Low economic status was associated with a higher rate of insomnia (p=0.033). A history of falls, hypertension, diabetes, and polypharmacy showed significant associations with insomnia (all p<0.05). Insomnia Severity Index score demonstrated a positive correlation with the number of chronic diseases (r=0.487; p<0.001) and the number of medications used (r=0.455; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Insomnia is common among individuals aged 80 years and older and is associated with female gender, low economic status, polypharmacy, multiple chronic diseases, and a history of falls. Insomnia in older adults should not be considered a normal part of aging, but a manageable condition that affects overall well-being. Routine sleep assessment and management of underlying risk factors should be integral components of geriatric care.