Adherence Patterns to Positive Airway Pressure in Elderly Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Eusebi Chiner1,2, Ignacio Boira1, Claudia Verbilt2
1Pneumology Department, San Juan de Alicante University Hospital, Spain.
Open Respiratory Archives
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Elderly patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) show better adherence to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy compared to younger individuals. This finding supports the use of PAP therapy in older populations for managing OSA.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Geriatrics
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition affecting patients of all ages.
- Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is a standard treatment for OSA.
- Adherence to PAP therapy can be a challenge, particularly in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate objective adherence to PAP therapy in elderly patients with OSA.
- To compare PAP adherence between elderly and younger patient groups.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 5903 patients undergoing PAP treatment (CPAP, AutoCPAP, BIPAP).
- Data collected included demographics, treatment duration, and device-recorded usage.
- Patients categorized by adherence levels: non-compliant (<1 h/day), partially compliant (1-3 h/day), compliant (>3 h/day), and highly compliant (≥6 h/day).
- Two age groups analyzed: <70 years (group A) and ≥70 years (group B).
Main Results:
- Mean PAP adherence was 4.6 ± 2.9 h/day.
- Elderly patients (≥70 years) demonstrated significantly higher adherence than younger patients (<70 years) (4.9 ± 2.9 vs 4.5 ± 2.9 h/day, p < 0.001).
- A greater proportion of elderly patients were highly compliant (≥6 h/day).
Conclusions:
- Elderly patients exhibit superior objective adherence to PAP therapy for OSA compared to younger individuals.
- These findings support the efficacy and feasibility of PAP therapy in the elderly population.
- Optimizing PAP therapy adherence in older adults with OSA is achievable and beneficial.
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