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Low-level light therapy for sleep quality, fatigue, depression, and cold limbs in older adults in nursing homes: A
I-Hua Lai1, Chen-Jei Tai2, Li-Yin Chien3
1Department of Nursing, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Objectives:
To examine the feasibility and effectiveness of low-level light therapy (LLLT) on head acupoints for improving geriatric symptoms (poor sleep, fatigue, depression, cold limbs), meridian energy, energy balance, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity in older adults in nursing homes.
Methods:
A total of 120 older adults participated in a one-group pre- and post-intervention study. LLLT (660 nm and 850 nm) was applied by a cap with LED light for 30 min, three times weekly for 6 weeks. Measures included meridian energy (Me-Pro Meridian Energy Analyzer), ANS activity (heart rate variability [HRV]), and subjective reporting of cold limbs. Sleep, fatigue, and depression were assessed with questionnaires.
Results:
Significant improvements were seen in sleep quality, fatigue, and depression. Cold limbs decreased from 50 % to 6.7 %, with a slight rise in body temperature. Meridian energy and ANS balance showed positive changes, with HRV indicating improved autonomic function.
Conclusions:
LLLT effectively improved geriatric symptoms in nursing home residents, potentially due to enhanced meridian energy and vagal tone.
