Shih YH, Yang YP, Chao HC, Hsiao HT, Wang JJ. Walking Interventions and Sleep Quality of Persons Living With Dementia and Their Family Caregivers: Effects of Different Walking Companions.
J Gerontol Nurs 2024;
50:46-56. [PMID:
39088054 DOI:
10.3928/00989134-20240703-01]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To examine the effect of walking interventions on sleep quality of persons with dementia (PWD) and their caregivers (dyads), and how different companions affect results.
METHOD
Forty-five dyads were divided into three groups: a control group and two experimental groups (one with a care attendant, one with a family caregiver). The two experimental groups engaged in 120 minutes of walking per week for 24 weeks.
RESULTS
A significant improvement in sleep quality was observed among PWD in the family caregiver group (Wald χ2 = 4.55, p = 0.033), whereas there was no improvement in the care attendant group. A slight improvement in sleep quality of family caregivers was also found.
CONCLUSION
Findings suggest the importance of creating individualized walking activity plans for dyads, incorporating trust and rapport-building strategies to improve sleep quality. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(8), 46-56.].
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