What is the typical age range for the onset of insomnia?

The typical age range for the onset of insomnia is most commonly observed in middle age to older adults. This demographic experiences insomnia due to a variety of factors, including age-related changes in sleep architecture, increased prevalence of medical conditions, and the cumulative impact of life stressors. As individuals age, physiological changes can affect the quantity and quality of sleep, making insomnia more prevalent.

In contrast, while insomnia can certainly occur in individuals of any age, the other age ranges mentioned do not capture the primary demographic where insomnia onset is most frequently reported. Teenage years tend to feature different sleep challenges, such as delayed sleep phase disorder, while early adulthood often involves lifestyle changes that might affect sleep but does not typically reflect the high rates of insomnia seen in older adults. Similarly, in childhood, sleep issues may manifest differently, often characterized by difficulty with sleep initiation rather than chronic insomnia. Thus, middle age to older adults represents the demographic where insomnia is most notably prevalent and significant.