QUALIDADE SUBJETIVA DO SONO EM IDOSOS PRATICANTES DE PILATES: UMA ANÁLISE COMPARATIVA COM SEDENTÁRIOS

Aging is a natural and progressive process that can negatively impact sleep quality. In this context, the Pilates method has been used as a non-pharmacological therapeutic strategy with potential physical and psychological benefits for the elderly. This study aimed to analyze the subjective sleep quality in elderly individuals who practice the Pilates method compared to sedentary elderly individuals. This is a descriptive study with a quantitative approach and non-probabilistic sampling, composed of 30 elderly participants equally divided between the groups. Data collection was carried out using a structured questionnaire focused on sleep quality perception. The results indicated that 60% of the Pilates group reported good sleep quality, compared to 46.7% in the sedentary group. The main complaints related to poor sleep quality included insomnia, pain, and excessive thoughts before sleeping, being more frequent among sedentary participants. It is concluded that the practice of the Pilates method may be associated with better subjective sleep quality in the elderly, representing a safe and accessible alternative for healthy aging. The findings reinforce the importance of integrative and nonpharmacological approaches as viable strategies for elderly care.