Counting Sheep Isn't Helping?

There is an interesting posting on the Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots" blog that talks about older patients and sleep problems - and how those sleep problems aren't just something people have to deal with as they age. The article does say that aging does bring about changes in sleep patterns, but those changes often are related to chronic diseases - like diabetes and high blood pressure - that also happen to be more common as we age. Once those ailments are treated, so too are the sleep issues.
However, the plot thickens - some medications used to treat those same conditions can also interrupt sleep patterns. Doctors sometimes don't mention those possible side effects, leading patients to not mention their sleep troubles. So, don't think your trouble sleeping isn't worth mentioning to the doc. They might be able to help you out!
One more article to check out: this one from BusinessWeek. Remember how companies were preparing for the wave of baby boomers who were entering retirement? Now, companies are looking for ways to handle the "unretirement" of those baby boomers. Check out the article to see what businesses are saying are the challenges and advantages of this aging American workforce.