A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Affecting Sleep Experiences Among Older Adults in a Resource-Challenged Urban Community

Abstract

Background

Sleep problems are common in later life and linked to increased morbidity and mortality. African American and low-income older adults disproportionately experience sleep problems.

Objective

Our aim was to identify factors perceived to affect sleep and garner feedback on potential components of a behavioral sleep intervention.

Methods

We conducted 21 semi-structured interviews with adults in an underserved urban community aged 50 to 74 (77% African American) reporting persistently poor sleep. We used a rapid qualitative analysis approach to develop themes.

Results

Results revealed multilevel sleep barriers related to both life stage and setting: for example, stress, chronic pain, vigilance due to security concerns and caregiving, and noise. All participants wanted to improve sleep without medications. Intervention components of most interest were contact with a community health worker, a watch to track sleep, and educational resources. The barriers identified here should be addressed in interventions to improve sleep in this population.

Keywords

insomnia sleep health health disparities older adults qualitative methods

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