Title : An investigation into education for sleep hygiene during old age
Abstract:
The author of this abstract is of the considered research view that good sleep is essential for health and emotional well-being of all, including people during old age. It is in this context that the concept of education for sleep hygiene (ESH) for older adults or aged population (those aged 60 or 65 years and above) has come into existence. Sleep hygiene implies “designing and implementing behavioural and environmental habits aimed at promoting (healthy) sleep quality and duration”. ESH, on the other hand, is psycho-educational intervention that teaches people to improve the quality of sleep (including sleep duration). In several studies, it has been found that sleep disorder or insomnia (“persistent inability to fall asleep”) is highly prevalent among older adults, with up to 50% reporting symptoms like difficulty falling or staying asleep. Primary objective of this research work is to investigate into need for ESH for people during old age. Also, it briefly touches upon key reasons for sleep disorder among older adults. In terms of research methodology, secondary data (largely ‘qualitative’ in nature) have been used. Scoping review of related (and relevant) literature was undertaken by the author for the purpose of data collection. Data were collected from secondary sources, such as journal articles, books, book chapters, and publications of inter-governmental agencies. Method of data analysis is ‘descriptive’, involving desk-based research. Analysis of data in this work indicates that sleep is important at any age. However, older adults often do not get enough sleep. With respect to contributing factors, there are multiple reasons for insomnia during old age. In broad terms, there are three underlying causes:
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like arthritis, heart disease and back pain cause severe night time discomfort.
- Medications and Substances: Some older adults take multiple medications, and consume alcohol. This interferes with sleep quality.
- Psychological and Social Factors: Depression, anxiety, grief over the loss of a loved one, and daytime napping can lead to severe insomnia and disrupted sleep.
It is pertinent to note that proper sleep hygiene can help promote healthy sleep habits. Practicing good sleep hygiene is one of the most effective, non-medical ways to improve both the quantity and quality of rest during old age. The ESH has potential to enhance sleep hygiene. This intervention enables older adults to address their daily habits, behaviour pattern, and environmental factors that support natural ability to (a) fall asleep, and (b) stay asleep throughout the night. ESH relies on two contributing factors: (a) lifestyle changes, and (b) bedroom adjustments. This is key to promote consistent and uninterrupted sleep (rest). In terms of modality, ESH should be imparted through formal and non-formal channels of education, including T.V. and social media platforms. Health care providers and other involved stakeholders can reach out to older adults confronted with insomnia with relevant messages through print and audio-visual aids. This work briefly concludes that ESH among older adults envisages twin considerations: consistent daily routines, and optimization of bedroom environments. It focuses on natural and behavioural interventions.
Keywords: Education for Sleep Hygiene (ESH), Older Adults, Daily Routine, Bedroom Environment, Sleep Quality, Sleep Duration, and Psycho-Educational Intervention
