Spousal bereavement in older adults is associated with which problem?

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Multiple Choice

Spousal bereavement in older adults is associated with which problem?

Losing a spouse triggers a strong grief response that often disrupts sleep. The stress, worry, and intrusive thoughts that accompany bereavement lead to hyperarousal, changes in daily routines, and less light exposure, all of which make it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested. This pattern of sleep disturbance—insomnia and fragmented sleep—is a common, direct reaction to bereavement in older adults and can persist, impacting daytime functioning and mood. While depression can occur after a loss and age-related issues like hearing loss or vertigo affect functioning, sleep problems are the most typical and closely tied consequence of spousal bereavement.

Losing a spouse triggers a strong grief response that often disrupts sleep. The stress, worry, and intrusive thoughts that accompany bereavement lead to hyperarousal, changes in daily routines, and less light exposure, all of which make it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested. This pattern of sleep disturbance—insomnia and fragmented sleep—is a common, direct reaction to bereavement in older adults and can persist, impacting daytime functioning and mood. While depression can occur after a loss and age-related issues like hearing loss or vertigo affect functioning, sleep problems are the most typical and closely tied consequence of spousal bereavement.

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