0729 Functional Consequences of Light Treatment in Healthy Older Adults living in Residential Facility: A Naturalistic Study Article Swipe
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· 2018
· Open Access
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· DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsy061.728
· OA: W2799788756
Aging is associated with sleep difficulties, including insomnia, lighter more fragmented sleep and advanced sleep phase. These sleep problems have been linked with fatigue, cognitive deficits, reduced quality of life (QoL), and increased health risks in the elderly. Controlled studies have shown behavioral therapies to be effective in treating multiple sleep problems. This study examined non-invasive light treatment administered in a residential group format to examine whether such a treatment paradigm is feasible and beneficial for sleep and daytime function. We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, 2x2 mixed study design. Seventeen healthy older adults [12F and 5M, 81.5(± 9.3) years, BMI 26.2(± 3.2)]. All participants underwent 5 consecutive days of 2 hours/day of “typical” light exposure (500-1000lux, 09.00-11.00) in a designated common room. They were then randomized to treatment (T; n=12; 3000-5000lux) or control (C; n=5; “treatment as usual”: 500-1000lux) groups, and repeated the above protocol, with the respective light intensity. Participants wore actigraphs throughout the study and at the end of each exposure period, conducted a computerized neuropsychological battery and filled out questionnaires. Sleep: The reduction in objective sleep onset latency (SOL) was greater in T vs. C (F(1,15)=6.0, p<.05). No differences were found in total sleep time, sleep efficiency, subjective sleep quality, or fatigue. Cognition: The increase in global cognitive (F(1,15)=2.9,p<.05) and memory (F(1,15)=6.0,p<.05) scores was greater in T vs. C. No differences were found in visuospatial, attention, executive function or motor skills. Mood & QoL: Environmental health-related QoL showed greater improvement in T vs. C (F(1,15)=4.6,p<.05). No differences were found in physical, psychological, and social QoL or any of the POMS scales (depression, tension, vigor, anger). Continuous morning light exposure seems to primarily affect cognitive functioning, specifically memory ability. Interestingly, participants also reported increased satisfaction with their environmental well-being, including their home environment and recreation. This innovative, non-invasive approach to light administration is feasible and may have wide-ranging applicability for older adults living in residential facilities. The research was supported by “Beit Tovei Ha’ir” management.
