Social isolation and physical activity practice associated with the quality of sleep in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study was to analyze the association between sleep quality and daytime sleepiness with sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral variables during the COVID-19 pandemic in physically active and inactive older adults. Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted with 150 older adults (88% women, 12% men) with a mean age of 68.60 ± 6.4 years. Demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed, including age, sex, professional status, health assessment, and physical exercise practice. Regarding sleep quality, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale ( ESE) were used. The older adults were evaluated at two moments: during confinement in 2020 and again in 2021 and were stratified according to their physical activity levels, with those who performed at least 30 min of exercise per week considered active. Results No significant differences were found between active and inactive older adults in sleep quality, PSQI domains, and sleepiness. However, a significant difference in perceived sleep quality was identified between groups ( p = 0.037). The variable “days of confinement” showed a positive correlation with daytime sleepiness ( r = 0.227; p = 0.012) and daytime dysfunction ( r = 0.181; p = 0.047). Age was negatively correlated with sleep quality ( r = − 0.285; p = 0.001). A significant difference in daytime sleepiness ( p = 0.019) and daytime dysfunction (p < 0.001) was observed between the beginning and end of the isolation period. Conclusion Physical activity was associated with better perceived sleep quality among older adults, although no significant differences were observed in PSQI scores between groups. Highlights •Regular physical activity is linked to better sleep quality in older adults, even during a pandemic. •Advanced age and the presence of comorbidities negatively affect perceptions of sleep quality. •Older individuals who remain confined show a positive association with higher levels of sleepiness and daytime dysfunction.