Gender Difference in Factors Affecting Quality of Sleep among Community Dwelling Elders

Abstract

This study was done to identify the relationship of perceived health status, stress, pain and quality of sleep and to identify predictors of sleep quality for elderly people for each gender. Prevalence of sleep disturbance was 74.8% (male elders and 81.6% (female elders). Female elders were significantly lower perceived health status score (t=2.19, p=.029), higher stress score (t=2.93, p=.004), higher pain score (t=-4.04, p<.001), than male elders. In multiple regression analysis, perceived health status, stress, spouse with or without were significant predictors and accounted for 17.6% of male elders’ sleep quality. For female elders, stress was significant predictor and accounted for 12.0%. Findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of sleep quality and related factors for elders in Korea. Also, these results could be used in developing sleep promotion program.