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Sleep problems are common among the elderly, and poor sleep affects health and quality of life. In this paper we will cover the characteristics of sleep in elderly patients. Sleep disorders are divided into six subgroups: insomnia, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, sleep related breathing disorders, sleep related movement disorders, hypersomnias, and parasomnias. The main focus of this paper will be on insomnia, but also the other sleep disorders will be described. Several of the sleep disorders are more common among older than younger people. Furthermore, many somatic and psychiatric disorders are associated with sleep problems, with depression being the most common comorbid disorder. A thorough patient history will uncover most of the sleep disorders, and the use of sleep diaries gives important additional information. The treatments of choice vary from non-pharmacological to pharmacological approaches, depending on the diagnosis. Chronic use of hypnotics is discouraged due to risk of tolerance and unfavourable side effects. It is vital to do a proper assessment before treatment is commenced, and appropriate treatment may have large effects -- also among elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]