Abstract
Late life insomnia is associated with various physical and psychological conditions, which warrants particular attention. This study aimed at exploring the impact of a programme of relaxation and deep breathing exercises in reducing insomnia in a population of older persons. A group controlled experimental study design was used with a sample of 98 (84 females) older persons, aged over 65 years, in two elders’ homes. The intervention consisted of progressive muscular relaxation exercises and deep breathing exercises conducted over a 12 week period. Pre- and post-intervention data was collected by the Sinhala version of the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). Independent sample t-tests and Paired sample t-tests were performed. Results revealed a significant reduction in insomnia after the intervention in the experimental group, but not in the control group. Hence, this study indicates that relaxation exercises significantly reduce insomnia and increase the quality of sleep among older persons. The fact that such a cost effective and easy to implement programme was effective in the treatment of insomnia is an encouraging outcome of this study. Such programmes are useful in countries such as Sri Lanka where monetary and trained human resources are scarce.
Highlights
AND LITERATURE REVIEWThe world population has significantly aged since the mid twentieth century
The present study explored the effects of progressive muscular relaxation (PMR) exercises on elderly people diagnosed with insomnia
This assessment was made by using the Sinhala version of the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS: elderly persons who scored 10 or more on the AIS were categorised as having insomnia)
Summary
The world population has significantly aged since the mid twentieth century. This is largely due to a demographic transition - a process whereby a reduction in mortality is followed by a reduction in fertility (United Nations, 2013). Insomnia in old age is reported to impair cognitive abilities, affect relationship with friends and family, and contribute to a feeling of being unwell (Ancholi et al, 2005). These studies suggest that insomnia in late life is associated with a considerable burden to the individual. Freedom from family responsibilities and work schedules and lack of exercise may increase the risk of
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