Prevalence and Predictors of Sleep Quality among Institutionalized Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2026.v11.n05.023Keywords:
Elderly, Sleep Quality, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Institutionalized Elderly, AgeingAbstract
Introduction: Ageing is accompanied by physiological and psychosocial changes, among which sleep disturbances are highly prevalent. Poor sleep quality contributes to cognitive decline, reduced functional ability, and diminished quality of life. Institutionalized elderly are particularly vulnerable, making systematic assessment of sleep essential Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 elderly residents of selected old age homes in Madurai. Data were collected using a structured proforma and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated tool comprising 19 items across seven components. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze demographic variables and their association with sleep quality. Results: The findings revealed that nearly all participants experienced sleep disturbances, with 48% reporting moderate difficulties, 47% mild difficulties, and only 1% reporting good sleep. Regression analysis showed that age was the only significant determinant of sleep quality (p < 0.001), while other demographic variables such as gender, education, marital status, financial dependency, and chronic illness did not show significant associations. Conclusion: Poor sleep quality is highly prevalent among institutionalized elderly, with advancing age being the strongest predictor of sleep disturbances. These results highlight the need for comprehensive interventions—medical, psychosocial, and lifestyle-based—to improve sleep health and overall well-being in this vulnerable population.
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