Understanding the Relationship between Sleep Quality and Physical Activity: Implications for Healthy Aging

Hyun  Byun; Suyoung  Hwang; Eunsurk  Yi; Ladan  Rokni

doi:10.18502/ijph.v53i11.16952

Hyun Byun Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
Suyoung Hwang Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
Eunsurk Yi Department of Exercise Rehabilitation, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
Ladan Rokni Asia Contents Institute, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v53i11.16952

Keywords: Sleep quality; Physical activity; Elderly population; Health promotion; Healthy aging

Abstract

Background: Understanding the general health and well-being of the aged population requires an understanding of several factors, among which the interplay between physical activity and sleep quality are the most efficient determinants. There is still much to learn about the precise ways that different components of sleep quality affect different kinds of physical activity in older persons, accordingly, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between these variables.

Methods: An online questionnaire-based investigation was conducted between August and September 2023. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 1,437 participants aged 50 to 89 years. The questionnaire evaluated levels of physical activity, sleep satisfaction, and demographic data. We used cluster analysis, regression analysis, and factor analysis to investigate the connections between these variables.

Results: Factor analysis revealed a single factor that accounted for 51.95% of the variance in all variables linked to sleep, and this factor represented overall quality of sleep. Regression analysis revealed that gender significantly predicted sleep quality, with females reporting lower sleep satisfaction. While strenuous exercise did not significantly affect sleep quality, moderate exercise was a positive predictor of sleep quality that neared statistical significance. Furthermore, cluster analysis revealed that those who engaged in more physical activity had higher-quality sleep.

Conclusion: These results highlight the significance of encouraging physical activity to improve older adults' sleep quality. Specific programs that promote moderate exercise may enhance this population's general health and sleep quality. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to create causality and modify intervention strategies aimed at promoting healthy aging.