## common Sleep Aid Use linked to Accelerated Aging and Loss of Autonomy in Seniors
the effects of certain medications are particularly vital to consider as we age.A recent American-Taiwanese study, published in the journal *Sleep*, highlights a concerning link between regular sleeping pill use, sleep disorders, and a faster decline in autonomy among seniors.
Millions of French people rely on medication to manage sleep. As sleep is crucial for overall well-being, especially for the elderly, many seniors turn to sleeping pills to combat insomnia. However, researchers now suggest that consistent use of these medications, combined with existing sleep disturbances, could accelerate the aging process and diminish independence.The study analyzed data from over 6,700 participants aged 65 and over,correlating the frequency of insomnia symptoms and sleeping pill consumption with a “disability score” measuring their ability to perform daily tasks like dressing,eating,and bathing.
The results revealed a clear trend: disability increased annually in proportion to both the frequency of insomnia symptoms *and* the use of sleeping pills. While sleep disorders alone contributed to a loss of autonomy, regular sleeping pill use led to an even *greater* increase in incapacity scores.
This finding is particularly relevant in France, where consumption of benzodiazepines and related drugs is high. Commonly prescribed medications include Havlane, Mogadon, Nactalon, Stilnox, and Imovane. According to the French Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM), “France is the 2nd most consumer country of Benzodiazepines in Europe after Spain.” In 2024,over 9 million French people were treated with a benzodiazepine,including approximately 3 million seniors (based on 2012 data from the High Authority for Health). The ANSM confirms that seniors over 65 are the population most affected by benzodiazepine use, frequently enough receiving prescriptions for extended durations, and are at increased risk of falls and other serious consequences.
Despite these risks,the ANSM recommends that sleeping pills should not be used for more than three weeks to treat insomnia. Improved insomnia treatment and stricter oversight of sleeping pill prescriptions for the elderly could help prevent loss of autonomy and preserve quality of life.
“Many elderly people believe that sleep disorders are an integral part of aging,but this is a real problem that must be solved,” emphasizes Soomi lee,co-author of the American study and professor at Pennsylvania State University.