Physiological and pathological factors that impact sleep quality in the elderly: a literature review

Authors

  • Larissa Belon Albuquerque Especializanda, Psiquiatria, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUC-RS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0384-9846
  • Alfredo Cataldo Neto Professor Titular, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUC-RS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8082-1866

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25118/2763-9037.2024.v14.1197

Keywords:

sleep quality, elderly health, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, geriatrics, gerontolgy, insomnia

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep quality in the elderly emerges as a highly relevant topic, supported by alarming statistical data. Around 50% of the elderly population reports sleep disorders, highlighting the significant prevalence of these problems in this age group. As age advances, a progressive increase in the incidence of sleep disorders is observed, signaling the urgency of addressing the underlying factors that contribute to this deterioration. Objective: To investigate sleep quality in the elderly, analyzing the physiological and pathological factors that influence this phenomenon. Methodology: This is a literature review based on the analysis of scientific articles published in PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, Google Scholar and BVS in the period from 2019 to 2023. Results: After completing the data collection phase, 6 relevant articles were identified to compose the analysis of the proposed topic. Discussion: A significant prevalence of sleep disorders was observed, approximately 50% in the elderly population. Physiological changes, such as in circadian rhythm and melatonin production, and pathological conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, adversely influence. Personalized interventions and public health policies are necessary to improve the quality of sleep in the elderly, aiming to positively impact their general health. Conclusion: The urgent need for specific approaches to improve the quality of sleep in the elderly is highlighted, aiming to promote healthy aging and address the significant prevalence of sleep disorders in this population.

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Author Biographies

Larissa Belon Albuquerque, Especializanda, Psiquiatria, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUC-RS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil

Alfredo Cataldo Neto, Professor Titular, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUC-RS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil

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Published

2024-08-02

How to Cite

1.
Albuquerque LB, Cataldo Neto A. Physiological and pathological factors that impact sleep quality in the elderly: a literature review. Debates em Psiquiatria [Internet]. 2024 Aug. 2 [cited 2024 Dec. 22];14:1-15. Available from: https://revistardp.org.br/revista/article/view/1197

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