Which factor is LESS likely to cause long-term insomnia in the elderly?

Long-term insomnia in the elderly can stem from a variety of factors, and while environmental changes can impact sleep, they are typically less significant in causing chronic insomnia when compared to other more persistent or severe health issues. Environmental changes, such as a move to a new home or changes in living conditions, may lead to temporary sleep disturbances, but they often do not result in long-term insomnia.

In contrast, conditions such as nocturia, congestive heart failure, and alcohol and substance abuse have been well-documented as contributing to chronic sleep issues. Nocturia, which involves frequent urination during the night, can directly interrupt sleep cycles. Congestive heart failure often leads to physical discomfort, respiratory issues, and worry about health, all of which can contribute to insomnia. Moreover, alcohol and substance abuse can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to dependencies that exacerbate insomnia over time.

Therefore, environmental changes are considered less likely to be a long-term cause of insomnia compared to these more persistent health-related factors.