Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 8, 2026

Lexical Decision Task for Studying Written Word Recognition in Adults with and without Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment
Published on: June 25, 2019
Effects of napping on cognitive function modulation in elderly adults with a morning chronotype: A nationwide survey
Su-Chen Fang1, Chun-Jen Huang2,3, Yu-Lin Wu1
1School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Circadian rhythms and napping habits have been associated with cognitive function; however, little is known about the interaction effects on cognitive function. The present study examined the moderating effects of napping habits on the relationship between chronotypes and cognitive function decline in elderly adults. This cross-sectional study analysed data from the 2009 Taiwan National Health Interview Survey. A total of 1,724 elderly adults (aged ≥65 years) were included. Cognitive function was determined by the Mini-Mental State Examination. Participants' chronotypes were assessed using the midpoint of sleep. Napping habits were assessed by self-report questions. Demographic data, health-related factors and sleep characteristics of the participants were also assessed as potential confounding factors. A hierarchical regression will be used to test the moderating role of napping habits in the relationship between chronotype and cognitive function level after adjustment for potential confounders. A significant interaction effect between chronotype and napping habits was observed with the MMSE score (b = -0.29, SE = 0.14, p = 0.03). Morning-type elderly patients with nap durations >60 min exhibited significantly higher MMSE scores than non-nappers (F = 7.48; p = 0.00). This nationwide survey confirms that in morning-type elderly adults, nap durations >60 min are associated with less cognitive decline; however, napping habits are not associated with cognitive function level in evening-type and intermediate-type elderly adults.
Related Concept Videos
Surveys
Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
Introduction to Surveying, Plane Surveying and Geodetic Surveys
Cognitive Dissonance
Errors and Mistakes in Surveying
Types of Surveys

