Multilevel analysis of sleep arrangements and psychological well-being among older couples in Taiwan

This study investigated the simultaneous associations between sleep arrangements (e.g., separate rooms for sleep) and psychological well-being (PWB) among older Taiwanese couples when considering individual and couple characteristics.

The study sample comprised 860 heterosexual married older couples (1,720 individuals) residing in Northern Taiwan. PWB was operationalized as a latent variable by three indicators: happiness, life satisfaction, and fulfillment. Sleep measures were assessed at individual and couple levels; a multi-level structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed, with couples at the level 2 unit and individuals at the level 1 unit.

The SEM results showed that older couples who slept in separate rooms experienced lower levels of PWB (β= - 0.12, p < .05) compared to those who slept together. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was also conducted, which controlled for previous relationship quality (e.g., conflict tactics), and the significant association between sleep in separate rooms and lower levels of PWB persisted (β= - 0.09, p < .01).

Sleep arrangement is a significant factor in a couple's PWB. The present investigation also underscored the importance of considering sleep within the context of a couple's relationship. Overall, the findings emphasize the need to consider the sleep arrangements of older couples when assessing their PWB.