Sleep and Sleep-wake Rhythm in Older Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Everyone who has experienced poor sleep knows how it affects daytime functioning and wellbeing. A good night’s rest and a stable sleep-wake rhythm are therefore very important. The sleep-wake rhythm is regulated by several brain structures. People with an intellectual disability (ID) all have some form of brain dysfunction, and might therefore be at risk for sleep disturbances.[1-2] During the process of ageing, brain structures that are important in regulating the sleep-wake rhythm show functional deterioration,[ 3] resulting in fo