Sleep quality and its relationship with physical activity and frailty syndrome among hospitalized older adults in North Iran

Background: Sleep disorders are a prevalent concern among older adults, contributing to reduced physical function. A bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and frailty syndrome has been suggested. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate sleep quality and its associations with physical activity and frailty syndrome among hospitalized older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 among 150 hospitalized older adults in East Guilan, northern Iran, using convenience sampling. PSQI, CHAMPS, and TFI questionnaires were employed as research instruments. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16, applying descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation coefficients. Results: The majority (76%) of participants had poor sleep quality, and 58.66% reported being physically active. Additionally, 58% were non-frail. Although no significant relationship was found between the total sleep quality score and frailty syndrome, a significant correlation was observed between habitual sleep efficiency and all dimensions of frailty (physical, psychological, and social). A positive relationship was also found between sleep quality and physical activity (r = 0.20, p = 0.014). Conclusion: Improved physical activity was associated with better sleep quality, which may reduce risk of frailty. Promoting physical activity and improving sleep hygiene in hospitalized older adults could enhance health outcomes and reduce frailty risk.