Medication (i.e. sedative hypnotics) may improve sleep parameters in elderly populations, however sleep problems generally resurface after discontinuation of medication. Additionally, the risk of adverse events created by sedative hypnotics, such as gait disturbance and cognitive impairment, is significant. Primarily due to the high risks associated with sedative hypnotics, they are not recommended as a fist-line treatment for insomnia. In situations where sedative hypnotics are prescribed, the recommended use duration is maximum 2 weeks.