0235 Technology Use Impacted Sleep Patterns in Older Adults During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Introduction Sleep, health status, and quality of life were highly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Coping mechanisms such as using digital media and smartphones used to reduce social isolation, may have negatively impacted sleep. The purpose of this analysis was to examine the relationships between digital media use and sleep among older adults using data from the Experiences of Older Adults During COVID-19. Methods Community-dwelling older adults participated in an anonymous survey in 2020 during the initial months (N=509) of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a one-year follow-up in 2021 (N=118). A secondary cross-sectional analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between sleep and smartphone use. We used descriptive analysis, independent t-tests, and Pearson coefficients to measure linear correlation amongst age, gender, technology use, sleep variables, sleep duration, timing, onset latency, wake after sleep onset, and feeling refreshed upon awakening. Results Participants in both waves were predominantly female (75.2%; mean age 76.4 years), 49.5% married, and 40.7% living alone. Sleep satisfaction (.001) and timing (.001) significantly improved after COVID-19. Smartphone use was significantly lower post-COVID-19 (0.02). Smartphone use was negatively correlated with sleep duration, feeling refreshed upon awakening, and sleep satisfaction. Female sleep satisfaction correlated with sleep duration 6-8h/night (.001) and timing (being asleep or trying to sleep between 2-4 am;.001). Conclusion Sleep satisfaction and timing improved at the 2021 follow-up. Digital media and smartphones were used as tools for connection during social isolation; however, they impaired sleep duration, satisfaction, and feeling refreshed the next day. Female participants were more satisfied with longer sleep duration. Further studies with racially and gender diverse sample may provide insights on technology use and sleep in older adults post-COVID-19 pandemic. Support (if any) 1K99AG079117-01 (Weiss); Saint Louis University COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund (Lach; OpenWater 1804)