Effect of a home-based videoconferencing exercise training program on circadian rhythms and sleep quality in healthy older adults

The aging process affects circadian rhythms and sleep quality, leading to various disruptions and health challenges. These changes, along with increased sedentary behavior, contribute to deteriorating sleep quality and overall health. Physical activity is crucial for entraining circadian rhythm and sleep improvement. Despite the well-explored benefits of face-to-face physical training, accessibility barriers for older adults necessitate innovative approaches like videoconferencing interventions. This study evaluated the effects of a home-based videoconferencing exercise training (ET) program on circadian rhythms and sleep quality in healthy older adults. Forty-three participants (61-79 years) were randomized to either remote physical ET or health education sessions (active control (AC) group). Pre- and post-intervention evaluations included circadian rhythm assessment using 7-day actigraphy and sleep quality via two polysomnography sessions. Significant differences between groups were observed in Z-score changes for mesor and amplitude values. Significant differences between groups in Z-score changes were also observed for sleep efficiency, the percentage of stage 1 sleep values, and insomnia severity index scores between. The study findings suggest that a home-based videoconferencing ET program positively impacts circadian rhythms and sleep quality in healthy older adults. This non-pharmaceutical approach offers an accessible and scalable solution to address age-related sleep disturbances and enhance overall well-being. However, findings on objective and subjective sleep parameters are preliminary and need confirmation in larger, standardized studies.