Impact of Non-Pharmacological Approaches on Sleep Quality Among Elderly Individuals: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - Report - MDSpire

Impact of Non-Pharmacological Approaches on Sleep Quality Among Elderly Individuals: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

  • By

  • Jia Song

  • Heng Dong

  • Chunying Wang

  • Yanxi Zheng

  • Yangzhen Huang

  • Yilin Wei

  • Kangkang Zhang

  • Hua Qing

  • Zhongbao Xiong

  • Yangyang Pan

  • Manwei Chen

  • Ruizhe Kang

  • Bishwajit Ghose

  • Dongfeng Tang

  • Ruoxi Wang

  • Chengxu Long

  • Yunfei Li

  • Shangfeng Tang

  • February 25, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Impact of Non-Pharmacological Approaches on Sleep Quality

Overview

This systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on sleep quality in older adults. The findings highlight the superiority of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and other complementary approaches over pharmacological treatments.

Background

Incorporate specific prevalence statistics for sleep disturbances in older adults.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the provided source material.

Key Findings

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is recommended as a first-line treatment for chronic insomnia in older adults.
  • Non-pharmacological interventions, including exercise and mindfulness, show promise in improving sleep outcomes with lower risks of adverse effects.
  • Pharmacological treatments provide limited benefits and are associated with significant risks, including cognitive impairment and increased fall risk.
  • Network meta-analysis allows for the comparison of non-pharmacological interventions, enhancing understanding of their relative effectiveness.
  • Evidence supports the integration of technology-enabled CBT-I programs to improve access to treatment for older adults.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should prioritize non-pharmacological interventions, particularly CBT-I, for managing sleep disturbances in older adults. Understanding the comparative effectiveness of these interventions can guide clinical decision-making and resource allocation in geriatric care.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the importance of non-pharmacological approaches in promoting sleep health among older adults, offering safer alternatives to pharmacological treatments. Continued research is essential to optimize intervention strategies for this vulnerable population.

References

  1. npj Digital Medicine, 2023 -- Advancing Comprehensive Sleep Health: The Role of Multimodal AI in the Hang Hao Meng Agent
  2. npj Digital Medicine, 2023 -- Active components in digital health interventions for sleep among adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
  3. npj Digital Medicine, 2023 -- Systematic review and meta-analysis of effects of standalone digital mindfulness-based interventions on sleep in adults
  4. Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 2023 -- Frequency and Treatment of Sleep Disorders in Adults with Primary Brain Tumors and Their Caregivers: A Systematic Review
  5. The Management of Chronic Insomnia Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Insomnia/OSA) (2025) - VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines
  6. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 2025 -- Effectiveness of Information and Communication Technology–Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Using the Smart Sleep App on Insomnia in Older Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial
  7. The Management of Chronic Insomnia Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Insomnia/OSA) (2025) - VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines
  8. Journal of Medical Internet Research - Effectiveness of Information and Communication Technology–Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Using the Smart Sleep App on Insomnia in Older Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial

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