An AARP survey shows 70% of adults over 40 have sleep difficulties
An AARP report published in April 2024 revealed that many Americans unnecessarily suffer from poor sleep and often dismiss its implications (aarp.org/pri/topics/health/prevention-wellness/healthy-living-sleep/).
According to a national online and phone study of 1,610 adults in the U.S. age 40 and over, seven in 10 report having sleeping difficulties.
- 52% have trouble falling asleep, and 59% staying asleep.
- 57% wake up more than once per night.
- 58% wake up too early.
More than 90% of the older adults surveyed acknowledged that poor sleep can hurt mental and physical health. Despite their struggles, 60% of respondents have never sought professional treatment, such as getting medication or a machine to help with sleep.
St. Luke’s Sleep Care helped a local man reclaim energy, health, and life
Jack Dopira confronted multiple health challenges—including heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer—before being hospitalized with sepsis in March. While undergoing care for the life-threatening condition, Dopira learned more about a critical body process that also affected his health. He learned about sleep.
Following his hospital stay, Dopira began a customized treatment plan for obstructive sleep apnea at St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine that has improved his quality of life. The 70-year-old Dopira now wakes up feeling refreshed, performs household chores with more energy, and feels 20 years younger. “My neighbor even calls me the ‘Energizer Bunny,’” the Summit Hill resident said.
Expert sleep care has improved Dopira’s overall health, highlighting the importance of a sleep management plan through St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine.
A health crisis leads to discovery
To address some of his chronic health concerns, Dopira lost 55 pounds through GLP-1 therapy, yet continued to struggle with low energy and discomfort. In March, Dopira faced another critical issue. He had stomach pain and vomiting after eating a haddock dinner and woke up the next morning without the energy to take a shower.
Dopira drove himself to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with sepsis and a need for gallbladder surgery. He was transferred to St. Luke’s Allentown Campus for further care. During his recovery, nurse “Bridget” noticed that Dopira’s oxygen levels dropped into the low 80s while he slept. That was concerning. After being released, Dopira went to St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine to evaluate his condition.
Addressing sleep concerns
Dopira had used a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device for about five years, but it wasn’t effectively improving his sleep health. Jill Lechner, CRNP at St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine, conducted an initial sleep study in April to assess Dopira’s oxygen levels and breathing patterns.
Lechner confirmed that Dopira had obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). He underwent a second overnight sleep study at St. Luke’s Miners Campus and consulted with Neurologist and sleep medicine specialist David A. Cohen, MD. Following Cohen’s recommendations, Lechner restarted Dopira’s CPAP usage program with newly prescribed settings. The treatment has been life-changing.
“Jack has been a wonderful patient to work with,” Lechner said. “He is very receptive to recommendations, and I expect his outcome to be excellent, as he is very motivated to make the necessary changes to improve his health.”
Dopira is off GLP-1 medication and working with a clinical dietitian to reach his goal weight of 225 pounds. His journey underscores the importance of proactive health management in preserving well-being and independence.
St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine can help you sleep better
St. Luke’s Sleep Medicine treats a variety of sleep-related conditions, including insomnia, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, and snoring.
Contact the Sleep Disorders Centers at St. Luke’s for help with evaluating, testing, and treating problems with sleeping. To schedule an appointment with a sleep medicine specialist, call 484-526-0224.
Consider taking our Sleep Quiz (slhn.org/neurosciences/specialties/sleep-disorders) if you are having trouble sleeping.
