The constellation of "Orion the Hunter".
Original image © Royal Astronomical Society Library

The Geriatric Sleep Research lab, run by Dr. Nalaka Gooneratne, is dedicated towards improving the sleep quality of seniors through research, education and clinical care.

Our research projects focus on the following areas in Geriatric Sleep Medicine:

1. Insomnia: Pathophysiology of insomnia in the elderly, with a focus on the role of melatonin abnormalities in contributing to insomnia.
2. Attitudes: Older adults’ cognitive beliefs and attitudes towards sleep disorders and their evaluation/management.
3. Sleep Apnea: Characteristics of sleep apnea that are unique to the elderly.

In addition to these research projects, we also run a Sleep Disorders Clinic for Seniors based at Ralston House. This clinic is structured to accommodate the needs of older adults in terms of accessibility, exam room layout and staff support.