Effectiveness of Integrated Sleep Intervention Strategies on Quality of Sleep among the Elderly at Selected Old Age Homes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2026.v11.n04.006Keywords:
Sleep Quality, Integrated Sleep Intervention Strategies, Non pharmacological Intervention, ElderlyAbstract
Background: Sleep disturbances are common among the elderly, particularly those residing in old age homes, and negatively affect health and quality of life. Pharmacological treatments often carry risks, making non pharmacological strategies safer alternatives. This study evaluated the effectiveness of integrated visual, auditory, and foot reflexology (VAF) strategies on sleep quality among elderly residents in selected old age homes. Methods: A quasi experimental design was adopted with 60 elderly participants (30 control, 30 intervention) selected through purposive sampling. Inclusion criteria were age ≥60 years, residence in the old age home ≥1 year, and self reported sleep disturbances. The intervention group received integrated VAF sessions (guided imagery, calming music, foot reflexology) for 30–40 minutes, five times per week, for four weeks. Sleep quality was assessed at three time points (pretest, post test 1, post test 2) using standardized tools. Statistical analyses included chi square tests, repeated measures ANOVA, and post hoc comparisons. Results: Sleep quality remained unchanged in the control group (pretest mean=14.93±3.83; post test 1 mean=14.60±3.51; post test 2 mean=14.63±3.46; p>0.05). In contrast, the intervention group showed significant improvement (pretest mean=16.00±3.20; post test 1 mean=11.10±2.09; post test 2 mean=8.20±1.58; p<0.001). Post hoc analysis confirmed differences between all pairs. By post test 2, 40% of the intervention group reported good sleep compared to none in the control group. Conclusion: Integrated VAF strategies significantly improved sleep quality among elderly residents. Findings highlight the potential of multimodal, culturally adaptable, non pharmacological interventions to promote sleep health and enhance well being in geriatric populations.
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