Sleep paralysis in the elderly
Journal of Sleep Research June 1, 1999 Yun Kwok Wing, Helen Chiu, Tony Leung et al.
Isolated sleep paralysis, known as 'ghost oppression' in Hong Kong, is common among Chinese elderly over age 70. In a sample of 158 subjects, nearly 18% reported experiences of ghost oppression, with descriptions closely matching sleep paralysis. Onset showed a clear bimodal distribution, with peaks in adolescence and after age 60; at least one-third of cases began late in life. Those with ghost oppression also reported more frequent nocturnal sleep disturbances, consistent with the REM/wakefulness dissociation hypothesis. A family history was reported in 10% of subjects.