A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF JOGGING AND SLEEP QUALITY IN OLDER ADULTS

This study aims to understand the experiences of older adults who routinely jog and the effects of jogging on their sleep quality. The research method used was a qualitative descriptive approach through in-depth interviews with 15 older adults over 50 years old who regularly jogged at least three times a week at GOR Sudiang, Makassar. The results showed that regular jogging improved sleep quality by enhancing sleep efficiency, reducing sleep latency, and minimizing nighttime disturbances. Beyond physical benefits, jogging also provided psychological effects such as stress reduction, emotional relaxation, and increased social interaction and peer support. Jogging also encouraged healthier lifestyle changes, including better dietary habits and reduced nighttime caffeine intake. Despite challenges such as physical limitations and weather conditions, health awareness and social support motivated participants to continue jogging. The study concludes that jogging is an effective and holistic non-pharmacological intervention to improve the quality of life for older adults through physical, psychological, social, and lifestyle dimensions. Keywords: Jogging, Sleep Quality, Older Adults, Physical Activity, Healthy Lifestyle