Onset of Chronic Insomnia Due to COVID-19 Pandemic in the Setting of Severe Anxiety in an Elderly Widow

Sleep disturbance in the current COVID-19 pandemic has been the subject of multiple studies showing variable results among different populations across the life span. Among the elderly and patients over the age of 65 years or those with significant comorbid health conditions, the pandemic related isolation and the loss of close family members has been particularly difficult to cope with. As a result of reduced outdoors activities and limited socialization, the anxiety and depression among this population has increased significantly, resulting in coping skills that may be adversely affecting sleep hygiene and leading to behaviors perceived as chronic insomnia. An understanding of the correlation of poor sleep hygiene during this pandemic will help accurately diagnose and effectively treat perceived insomnia with avoidance of sedative and hypnotic medications in most instances.