The relationship between moderate physical activities and sleep quality and quantity among persons with dementia

Abstract

Aims and Significance: The prevalence of dementia is rapidly increasing worldwide due to an aging population. Sleep disorders are a common characteristic of dementia, and pose a significant threat to the quality of life of persons with the condition and their families. This study compared the sleep quantity and quality between active and inactive persons with dementia. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design. Telephone questionnaires were administered to 40 caregivers of a person with dementia. The caregivers answered the questions as proxies on behalf of their care recipient. Results: Active persons with dementia experienced significantly better sleep quantity than their inactive counterparts (P=.000). Furthermore, the active group obtained significantly better overall sleep quality scores (P=.003). Specifically, sleep onset latency (P=.021) as well as daytime napping (P=.000) and drowsiness (P=.015) were significantly correlated with activity level. Conclusion: The preliminary evidence from this study suggests that physical activity may be an important method of improving sleep in this population. This study will aid in the promotion of safe and effective ways for managing aspects of dementia that impact quality of life and encourage future research in this area.