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The Issue

One in 10 older adults in Canada take a sleeping pill on a regular basis, often for many months or years. Medical experts recommend short-term use due to the possibility for side effects and other harms associated with sleeping pills. However, stopping sleeping pills can be difficult.

Study Purpose

We want to learn about people’s experiences when trying to stop sleeping pills, including people who were able to stop their use as well as people who tried but were unable to stop taking them. What we learn will help us improve how patients are cared for when coming off their sleeping pills.

Participant Eligibility

You may be eligible if you

  • Are 65 years of age and older
  • Live independently in the community (not residing in long-term care)
  • Have experience with sleeping pills:
    o  Are currently taking a sleeping pill, or
    o  Stopped taking a sleeping pill within the past 2 years

What’s Involved

When you click Go to SIMOA survey you will be asked to read about the survey before deciding to participate. If you decide to participate you will be asked a few screening questions to confirm your eligibility and if you are eligible you will be able to start the survey. The survey can only be done online. You can use a computer, tablet, or smart phone. Most people complete the survey within 30-50 minutes.

Private and Confidential

This is an anonymous survey. You will NOT be asked to give any information that could be used to identify you.

Who is conducting this study?

The study is being conducted by researchers from Dalhousie University. See Contact/Team for details.

Survey Questions

You will be asked to rate your agreement with statements about your experiences while taking sleeping pills and when attempting to stop them. There are also questions about your demographics, health status, and current use of medications for sleep.

Go to SIMOA survey