Frail older people with insomnia experiences of using weighted blankets : a qualitative study

• Background: Insomnia is common among frail older people living in nursing homes, and many are often prescribed medication. However, it may be beneficial to consider using a weighted blanket as an alternative intervention. Aim: The aim of the study was to explore how frail older people with insomnia experience the use of a weighted blanket when living in nursing homes. Methods: The study was conducted in nine nursing homes in five municipalities in the southwest of Sweden. Nineteen people were included aged 67 and older, four men and 15 women. The study had an inductive qualitative design. The semi-structured interviews were analysed with qualitative content analysis. Results: The results formed four categories: Experiencing proximity which raised older people's experiences of the weighted blankets' proximity that gave a sense of comfort or discomfort. Experiencing changes in sleeping patterns, raised older people's experiences of the weighted blanket influence in change sleep patterns. Experiencing conditions for use, frail older people experienced the right conditions surrounding and handling the weighted blanket. Experiencing stimulating senses: frail older people experience changes in their senses of worry, anxiety, and pain., Conclusions: Frail older people experience that weighted blankets can provide comfort, positively influence sleep patterns, and reduce anxiety. This intervention can be considered valuable and offers a possible alternative to medication for frail older people with insomnia. 

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences (hsv//eng)

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