Increasing ambient temperature disrupts sleep and impairs cognitive function among Older Adults

Abstract Increases in ambient temperature have been associated with deleterious consequences for socially disadvantaged populations. However, there is limited research on the associated mental health effects. Thus, this study examined the direct and indirect effects of high temperatures on sleep quality and cognitive function among older adults. Using combined data from the WHO Ghana Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health with temperature measurements derived from the Climatic Research Unit gridded Time Series and structural equation models, we examined the direct and indirect relationship between increasing mean temperatures, sleep difficulties, and cognitive impairment while adjusting for appropriate covariates. Increases in mean temperature change were associated with an increase in the severity of sleep difficulties and a decrease in cognitive function. The effect of temperature significantly increased sleep difficulties for females and older adults (65+). Our study shows that a reduction in temperature will improve sleep quality and enhance cognitive function.