[Influence of non-pharmacological measures on the sleep quality of geriatric residents: a mixed-methods study]

Influence of non-pharmacological measures on the sleep quality of geriatric residents: a mixed-methods study Abstract: Background: Older people often suffer from sleep disorders, and insufficient sleep can have an impact on morbidity and mortality. Aim: The aim was to create, implement and evaluate a catalogue of non-pharmacological measures for improving sleep quality in geriatric long-term care. Method: This research project is divided into three phases: (1) needs analysis, (2) development of a catalogue of measures and (3) implementation and evaluation. Data collection for the needs analysis was carried out using a mixed-methods-approach. Information on sleep experiences was collected through guided interviews (n = 9) with residents. In the quantitative survey (n = 55), using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), data on the quality of residents' sleep was collected. A catalogue of non-pharmacological measures to promote sleep was subsequently created using a focus group comprising participants from the nursing sector (n = 13). This catalogue was then implemented in tow geriatric wards. The evaluation part was divided into a pre- and post-survey using the PSQI (n = 24) to review the measures taken. Results: In the evaluation of the PSQI, the pre-survey yielded a mean value of 8,1 (SD = 0,8), which indicates poor sleep behaviour. In the post-survey, a mean value of 5,9 (SD = 0,8) was determined, which corresponds to healthy sleep behaviour. Conclusions: It was shown that non-pharmacological sleep-promoting measures could have a positive influence on sleep quality.