Effects of Walking Exercise on Sleep Quality in Older Adults

Effects of Walking Exercise on Sleep Quality, Memory, and Attention in Older Adults With Poor Sleep Quality

This study aims to explore whether increasing physical activity can improve sleep quality in older adults, particularly those with poor sleep, and whether such improvements positively influence cognitive functions such as memory and attention. The goal is to provide a practical intervention strategy to enhance both sleep quality and cognitive function, contributing to healthy aging.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 60 and 80
• Montreal Cognitive Assessment score > 26
• Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score > 5
• Not participated in any regular exercise program in the past 3 months
• Being able to understand and follow the exercise program

Exclusion Criteria:

• Suffering from any neurological or musculoskeletal disorders
• Visual problems
• Geriatric Depression Scale score ≥ 6
• Vestibular disease or vestibular dysfunction
• Being unable to walk independently due to neuromuscular or musculoskeletal limitations
• A history of mental illness
• Untreated obstructive sleep apnea
• A history of electroconvulsive therapy or severe head injury leading to prolonged unconsciousness
• A history of alcoholism or dependence within the past 2 years
• A history of cancer within the past 5 years
• Any major systemic diseases, unstable medical conditions (such as insulin-dependent diabetes or uncontrolled diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension (systolic pressure > 170 or diastolic pressure > 100 mmHg)),
• Taking medications that affect the central nervous system, balance, coordination, or sleep (such as antidepressants, vestibular sedatives or anxiolytics, sleep aids)