[Effects of physical exercise on sleep quality, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness in the elderly. A literature review]

Abstract

The ageing process alters the stages of sleep, and the elderly that have this problem tend to be prescribed pharmacological treatment. This has long term side effects and results in increased health costs. On the other hand, frequent or regular physical exercise could be an overall superior alternative, due to its multifactorial effects. It is also less expensive, thus more affordable and accessible. Furthermore, these benefits could be extrapolated to the quality of sleep. Taking this into account the purpose of this paper is to establish the proper amount of physical exercise using the FITT (frequency, intensity, time, type of exercise) principle, and its effect on the quality of sleep, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness in the elderly. This could lead us to a paradigm shift in the treatment of sleep disorders, and also may constitute an alternative method for treating the elderly.

Keywords: Aging; Calidad de sueño e insomnio; Daytime sleepiness; Ejercicio físico; Envejecimiento; Physical exercise; Quality sleep and insomnia; Somnolencia diurna.