The American journal of medicine
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Complaints of insomnia and disordered sleep are pervasive among the elderly, and reduced total sleep time and changes in sleep architecture are considered to be normal in the aging process. Additionally, numerous medical and psychiatric disorders that are highly prevalent in the geriatric population are known to affect sleep adversely. ⋯ Moreover, approximately 23 percent of Americans over age 85 reside in long-term care facilities, and institutionalization is an important risk factor for disordered sleep and for sedative hypnotic prescription. Consequently, the evaluation of any sedative hypnotic agent must include substantial assessment of efficacy, safety, and tolerance in geriatric patients.
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Clinical academic medicine desperately needs the continued infusion of talented young academicians, but many young faculty are not pursuing strategies that optimize their chances for academic survival. Many junior faculty are overburdened with clinical demands and do not have a well-focused research agenda. Such situations will hinder the full development of many talented young persons. In order to optimize chances for success, young faculty should clearly define their goals, carefully negotiate the terms of their employment, practice sound principles of time management, identify a mentor, and develop a focused research agenda.