Buying Time: Improving Sleep to Promote Cognitive Function in Older Adults

Buying Time: Improving Sleep to Promote Cognitive Function in Older Adults

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether a comprehensive group education combined with a lifestyle "activation" program that includes (a) sleep hygiene course, (b) physical activity promotion, and (c) bright light therapy, can improve both sleep quality and cognitive function among 96 community-dwelling older adults.

96 community-dwelling older adults with sleep complaints will be randomized into either a 6-month life style and sleep activation intervention program or a waitlist control group (participants in this group will be offered an abbreviated version of the program upon completion of the 6 month study). There are 3 measurement sessions to measure cognition, sleep, and physical activity at the onset of the study, the midway (3 month) point, and completion (at 6 months).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Sleep complaints
• Community-dwelling (not in a long term care facility)
• Read, write, and speak English
• Able to walk independently
• In sufficient health to participate in regular physical activity

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
• Receiving continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) treatment
• Diagnosed with dementia of any type
• At high risk for cardiac complications during physical activity or unable to self-regulate activity or understand recommended activity level
• Have a clinically important peripheral neuropathy or sever musculoskeletal or joint disease that impairs mobility