Sleep Health and Quality of Life Among Older Adults in Bangalore: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Sleep is an essential part of health across the life course, but its importance can become especially visible in later life, when physical health, emotional well-being and everyday independence may be affected by changes in sleep. Older adults may experience lighter sleep, earlier waking and more frequent night-time awakenings. These changes do not automatically indicate a sleep disorder; however, persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or feeling rested deserves attention. This narrative review examines the relationship between sleep health and quality of life among older adults, with particular relevance to the urban context of Bangalore. It discusses age-related sleep changes, common sleep problems, physical and psychological influences, lifestyle and social conditions, and the ways in which sleep may be connected with mobility, cognition, emotional well-being and participation in daily life. Indian evidence indicates that sleep problems are associated with chronic illness, pain, physical inactivity, nutritional status and socioeconomic circumstances. National studies have also reported links between poor sleep, insomnia, depressive symptoms, life satisfaction and physical frailty. The review highlights the need to understand sleep as more than the number of hours spent in bed. Sleep quality, continuity, daytime functioning and the social circumstances of older people are also important. It concludes that routine enquiry, timely assessment, supportive family relationships, healthy daily routines and accessible geriatric services can contribute to better sleep and quality of life. More locally focused research is needed to understand the experiences of older adults living in Bangalore.