Sleep, anxiety, and depression associated with the quality of life of older adults: a cross-sectional study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15649/cuidarte.5327Keywords:
Anxiety, Depression, Sleep, Quality of Life, AgingAbstract
Highlights
- A negative correlation was observed between sleep quality and the domains and facets of quality of life.
- Elevated levels of anxiety and depression symptoms have been associated with a poorer quality of life.
- Domains and facets of quality of life showed a negative correlation with the variables analyzed, particularly physical and psychological aspects, and social participation.
- Strategies aimed at preserving the independence and autonomy of older adults become essential to promoting overall well-being and a better perception of quality of life.
Introduction: As individuals age, various factors can affect their quality of life, such as changes in sleep patterns and the presence of symptoms of anxiety and depression. Objective: To analyze the correlation between quality of life and changes in sleep patterns, symptoms of anxiety, and depression in elderly individuals assisted at a Health Unit. Materials and Methods: This is a quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted with 307 older adults assisted by a Health Unit in southern Brazil. The instruments used were the WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-OLD; the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Data collection was conducted at the participants' homes between May and August 2024. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationships among variables. Results: A weak correlation was observed between quality of life and sleep quality (r = -0.28 and r = -0.35). In contrast, the correlations with anxiety symptoms (r = -0.47 and r = -0.40) and depression symptoms (r = -0.61 and r = -0.55) were negative and moderate. Discussion: Domains and facets of quality of life showed negative correlations with the variables analyzed, especially physical and psychological aspects, as well as social participation. Conclusions: The findings confirm that poor sleep quality and the presence of anxiety and depression symptoms are associated with worse quality of life in older adults, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring and effective strategies to promote overall well-being.
How to cite this article: Assis, Bianca Pereira de; Cavalaro, Laura; Fernandes, Bruno Bomfim; Molina, Camila Juliana Ferreira; Garcia, Raiane Caroline; Santos, Aliny de Lima. Sleep, anxiety and depression associated with the quality of life of older adults: a cross-sectional study. Revista Cuidarte. 2026;17(2):e5327. https://doi.org/10.15649/cuidarte.5327
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