0092 Barriers and facilitators of sleep health in family caregivers of persons living with dementia: A qualitative study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Family caregivers of persons with dementia (PLwD) commonly report poor sleep health. Existing effects of sleep interventions are mixed and may not have addressed unique issues experienced by caregivers of PLwD. Understanding the barriers and facilitators to get a good night's sleep for these caregivers is imperative for developing acceptable and effective interventions to improve sleep health in this population. Methods This was a secondary data analysis that used a qualitative descriptive design and aimed to explore sleep characteristics and experiences in family caregivers of PLwD. The current study used the same study design to explore barriers and facilitators of good sleep. Using a semi-structured interview, 19 family caregivers of PLwD who provided unpaid caregiving > 4 hours a day with insomnia symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index > 5) participated in this study. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Codes and themes were identified. Results Caregivers, on average, were 64 years old and primarily female (57.9%), Caucasian (68.4%), and spouses (78.9%). In general, caregivers of PLwD reported that the caregiving role negatively influenced and changed their sleep. Themes associated with barriers to good sleep included 1) PLwD’s sleep problems, including a need for increased vigilance for the PLwD, 2) stress associated with balancing work and family responsibilities with caregiving, and 3) caregiver's sleep problems, such as the use of CPAP, having a history of sleep problems before the caregiving role, and changes of sleep patterns with aging. Participating in regular exercise and practicing mindfulness activities (e.g., breathing, meditation or yoga) were themes associated with facilitators of good sleep. Maintaining good sleep hygiene habits (e.g., no caffeine and no daytime naps) and avoiding bad sleep hygiene habits (e.g., watching TV in the bedroom or using an electronic device in bed) were also identified as facilitators of good sleep. Conclusion Caregivers of PLwD reported poor sleep but identified multiple modifiable factors that could be used for interventions to improve sleep. These interventions can be at individual, dyadic, or family levels to best impact caregivers’ sleep. Support (if any) This study was supported by a research supplement to support diversity in health-related research awarded to Glenna Brewster (R01AG054079, PIs: Hepburn/Griffiths)