Prevalence of insomnia, and sleep hygiene techniques practiced among elderly residing in selected old age homes of udupi and dakshina kannada district, karnataka

Insomnia is viewed as both a symptom and a disorder which affects a large set of population. Poor sleep may increase many medical problems like pain, diabetes mellitus, and psychiatric conditions like depression, dementia, and anxiety disorder. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of insomnia and sleep hygiene activities practiced by elderly in selected old age homes. Materials and Method: A total number of 181 elderly were participated in the study. A non-probability convenient sampling technique was incorporated for the selection of participants. Informed written consent was obtained after explaining about the study. Demographic proforma and insomnia severity index scale were used to collect the data. Result: Among males, the mean Insomnia severity score was 12.59 ± 5.045 (95% CI 11.46-13.72%) whereas in females 10.26 ± 6.20 (95% CI 09.05-11.48%). Out of 181 participants 122 (67.4%) had scores at or above the cut off score which indicated insomnia.With regard to sleep hygiene practiced by the elderly, 71.3% of the elderly used to get exposed to sunlight in the late after noon and 75.1% used to take hot water bath two hors before bed time. Conclusion: Insomnia was common among elderly residing at old age homes. Elderly should have the knowledge, ability to recognize the symptoms of insomnia, factors contributing to it and proper practice of sleep hygiene activities.