0958 Sleep and Living Environment for Youth Residing in Juvenile Rehabilitation Treatment and Detention Facilities

Abstract Introduction Adolescents experience a shift towards later sleep and circadian timing, making them vulnerable to misaligned sleep schedules and insufficient sleep, which can have physical, emotional, behavioral consequences. Building on prior work in juvenile justice facilities in Maryland, we assessed potential sleep health risks and sleep-wake environments in the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) detention (YSC) and rehabilitation (NB) facilities in Washington, DC. Methods Using a Sleep Justice Observational Checklist previously devised by our team in 2019, researchers examined natural and artificial light exposure via window quantity and size and lights in sleeping and non-sleeping areas. Daytime illuminance (photopic lux) was measured in all areas with a light meter in sitting and standing positions. Sleeping arrangements and technology exposure were also captured. 24-hour schedules for each facility were examined to understand daily routines. Results Both facilities had units with a central common area and connecting single-bed bedrooms; YSC had rooms with a sink/toilet, while NB had shared bathrooms off the common space. Residents (ages 12-20 years) spent most of their day in sleeping areas (~9 h), common areas (7-8 h), and classrooms (4-7 h/weekday). Averaged illuminance indicated that YSC bedrooms were brighter than NB bedrooms (255.5 lux, 164.5 lux, respectively). Lights-on times ranged from 6-7 a.m. in YSC and 6-9 a.m. in NB. “Bedtime” (youth sent to bedrooms) ranged from 8:00-8:45 p.m. in NB, with lights-off at 8:45p.m. “Bedtime” at YSC ranged from 8:30-9:45 p.m. with lights-off at 9:45p.m. NB had more artificial lights (AL) in their common area (ALNB= 16, ALYSC= 10) and classrooms (ALNB= 9, ALYSC= 4) and more windows (W) in their common area (WNB= 42, WYSC= 7), as well as natural light exposure through outdoor walkways between buildings. Conclusion Preliminary findings indicate variation in sleep environments and schedules between facilities. Further analyses and data collection from the youth themselves will examine how these conditions interact with sleep-wake patterns and emotional well-being, and findings will help inform recommendations aimed at improving their sleep quality while in DYRS facilities. Support (if any) Bloomberg American Health Initiative Kolvenbach Research Grant, Loyola University Maryland