Mindfulness-based interventions to promote improved sleep quality in older adults

Sleep quality is a crucial indicator of overall health of older adults, who are vulnerable to sleep-related complications such as increased risk for anxiety, dementia, and falls. Sleep disturbances are common in this population and can be exacerbated by comorbidities, including chronic pain and depression. This article explores the research around mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), which have gained attention as a nonpharmacologic approach to improving sleep quality. MBIs, including mindfulness-based stress reduction, mindfulness-based therapy for insomnia, and mindfulness-based exercises such as yoga and tai chi have shown many benefits for older adults, including improved sleep duration and quality, decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduced pain. Findings suggest that mindfulness is an effective, low-risk, low-cost way to enhance sleep in older adults, particularly when delivered within structured programs. Early findings also suggest that these interventions may be effectively delivered via digital platforms (such as mindfulness apps), providing increased accessibility and convenience for the older adult population. Nurses should assess patients' sleep quality, address any health issues that might interfere with sleep, and educate older adult patients about the benefits of MBIs as a nonpharmacologic intervention for sleep disturbances.