Free online program helps older adults beat insomnia with CBT techniques

A new online program is helping older adults tackle insomnia without replacing doctors or therapists. The tool uses proven techniques to improve sleep quality and could soon be available for free. Early results show it reduces symptoms and may even boost memory in some users. The program is based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), the standard treatment for long-term insomnia. Researchers tested it on older adults struggling with sleep problems. After completing the course, participants improved their sleep efficiency by 11.46%.

One key recommendation was spending less time in bed to strengthen sleep quality. Half of the users saw a major drop in insomnia symptoms, scoring at least seven points lower on the Insomnia Severity Index. Five people no longer qualified as having insomnia after finishing the program.

Poor sleep is linked to serious health risks, including depression, heart disease, and diabetes. The team behind the project is now exploring whether better rest could also sharpen memory and thinking skills in older adults. Users can work through the program at their own speed and return to lessons whenever needed. The researchers aim to roll out the platform more widely, possibly at no cost, if funding allows. The program focuses on making evidence-based treatment accessible to more people. Future studies will track its long-term effects on sleep, cognition, and overall health.