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Changes in Sleep Difficulties During the Transition to Statutory Retirement
Saana Myllyntausta1,2, Paula Salo3,4, Erkki Kronholm4
1Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
Sleep
|November 21, 2017
Summary
Retirement improves sleep quality for many, reducing early morning awakenings and nonrestorative sleep. This study tracked sleep changes in Finnish public sector employees transitioning to retirement.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sleep Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Sleep difficulties are common and can impact overall health and well-being.
- The transition from full-time employment to retirement represents a significant life change that may affect sleep patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine changes in sleep difficulties during the transition from full-time work to statutory retirement.
- To investigate the prevalence of specific sleep problems, including insomnia and nonrestorative sleep, before and after retirement.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Finnish Public Sector study, including 5,807 employees retiring between 2000 and 2011.
- Administered the Jenkins Sleep Problem Scale Questionnaire every 4 years, both pre- and post-retirement.
Main Results:
- Overall sleep difficulties decreased post-retirement (Risk Ratio = 0.89).
- Significant reductions were observed in waking up too early (RR = 0.76) and nonrestorative sleep (RR = 0.47).
- Improvements were most pronounced in individuals experiencing psychological distress, poor self-rated health, short sleep duration, or job strain prior to retirement.
Conclusions:
- Statutory retirement is associated with a reduction in sleep difficulties, particularly early morning awakenings and nonrestorative sleep.
- These findings highlight the potential for retirement to positively influence sleep health, especially for those with pre-existing sleep-related issues or stressors.
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