Self-Reported Napping Behavior Change After Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment in Older Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on napping behavior in adults aged 60 and older with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

Design: Retrospective cohort study using questionnaires.

Setting: Sleep center.

Participants: Individuals starting CPAP treatment between April 2010 and March 2012 (mean age 65.2 ± 4.7; M:F = 3.9:1; N = 107).

Measurements: All subjects underwent sleep studies, clinical reviews, and CPAP adherence checks and completed a questionnaire regarding CPAP adherence, current employment status, sleep patterns before and after CPAP, and factors affecting their current sleep patterns.

Results: CPAP treatment duration was 82.7 ± 30.0 weeks, and objective adherence was 5.4 ± 2.0 hours per night overall. Daytime nap frequency before CPAP treatment was higher in those with a history of stroke or cardiovascular disease. Both sexes had a significant reduction in daytime napping (men, P < .001; women, P = .008), evening napping (men, P < .001; women, P = .02), and daily nap duration (men, P < .001; women, P = .02). Logistic regression analysis showed that the reduction in self-reported daily nap duration was associated with younger age (odds ratio (OR) = 0.86, P = .04), a decrease in ESS score (OR = 1.20, P = .03), and longer self-reported daily nap duration at baseline (OR = 31.52, P < .001).

Conclusion: Long-term CPAP treatment in older adults with OSAHS can play a significant role in reducing nap frequency and daily nap duration. Aging or shorter baseline daily nap duration may attenuate this effect.

Keywords: CPAP; napping; obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome; older adults.