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Occupational Therapy Interventions Addressing Sleep for Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Stacy Smallfield1, Whitney Lucas Molitor2
1Stacy Smallfield, DrOT, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA, is Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy and Medicine and Assistant Director, Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Professional Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; stacy.smallfield@wustl.edu.
Abstract:
Because of age-related changes in sleep patterns, older adults may get less sleep than the recommended amount and experience decreased performance in daytime activities as a result. This article examines the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions within the scope of occupational therapy addressing sleep. Thirteen Level I studies met inclusion criteria and were categorized into three themes: (1) one-to-one single-component interventions, (2) one-to-one multicomponent interventions, and (3) group multicomponent interventions. Strong evidence supports cognitive-behavioral intervention strategies for older adults that include relaxation, sleep hygiene education, problem solving, and physical exercise, among others, delivered one to one or in a group. Routine use of these interventions is recommended.
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