Association between upper extremity dysfunction and sleep disturbance in an elderly general population.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Sleep Medicine
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Sleep disturbances are common in elderly populations and can impact overall health.
• Upper extremity disorders are frequently associated with sleep disruption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between self-assessed upper extremity function and sleep disturbance in an elderly general population.

Main Methods:

• 159 elderly participants completed questionnaires on upper extremity function (Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), sleep disturbance (Athens Insomnia Scale), and quality of life (EuroQol-5D-3L).
• Bilateral hand grip strength was measured.
• Statistical analyses were performed to determine associations.

Main Results:

• 28.3% of participants reported sleep disturbance.
• Sleep disturbance severity scores correlated with quality of life measures and upper extremity dysfunction scores.
• Participants with sleep disturbance showed significantly higher Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores and lower grip strength.

Conclusions:

• Self-reported upper extremity health status is associated with sleep disturbance in the elderly.
• Findings suggest a correlation between upper extremity conditions and sleep disturbances in this population.