Efficacy Of Chair Based Exercises To Improve Self Reported Sleep Problems And Depression Among Institutionalised Elderly

ABSTRACT

Background: Poor sleep quality and depression along with physiological changes due to ageing contribute to increased incidences of falls. It has been observed that among most of the elderly residents these problems remain untreated and studies have shown almost eighty five percentage of this population rely on antidepressants and sedatives as a treatment of choice. But these medications can have deleterious side effects like day time confusion, drowsiness and falls. Physical exercises in different modes like resisted exercises or Tai Chai have shown to improve sleep quality and depression. But most of these exercises are done in standing or unaided and they can be difficult or impossible for frail elderly due to their co- morbidity and increased risk of falling. Methodology: Permission to carry out the study was taken from concerned authorities of old age homes. Written consent was taken from participants. Thirty subjects aged sixty five years and above were recruited in the study from the old age homes, Navi Mumbai. The participants were screened and pre-test score for depression and sleep quality were taken on Pittsburgh Sleep quality index and Geriatric depression scale. A structured group ,chair based exercises was undertaken and supervised by the physiotherapist, twice in a week for ten weeks .The exercises included were warm up, free mobility exercises for upper and lower limbs, breathing exercises and cool down for about forty five minutes. After completion of ten weeks post test score for outcome measures were noted and results were analysed. Results: Statistical analysis was done using Wilcoxon signed rank test for Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index and Geriatric Depression Scale. The Global Score of sleep quality scale showed improvement post-test value of 9.5 from 12.5, z value 4.230, p value less than 0.001. The post test for depression improved to 12 from pre-test score of 17, z value 4.639, p value less than 0 .001. The study was single blinded to reduce bias. Conclusion: Chair based exercises can be considered as simple and effective exercises to improve poor sleep quality and depression among institutionalized elderly.