Nonpharmacological Interventions Can Improve Nighttime Sleep for LTC Residents

​A study published in the June 2018 issue of BMC Geriatrics evaluated 25 nonpharmacological interventions to improve nighttime sleep for long-term care residents within five categories: clinical care practices, mind-body practices, social and physical stimulation, complementary health practices, and environmental adjustments. The study found that increased daytime light exposure, nighttime use of melatonin, and acupressure prior to sleep produced the most promising results. Residents often experience frequent awakenings and fragmented sleep due to common clinical care practices that increase light and noise overnight.