Effect of aerobic exercises on sleep and hormonal levels in elderly with chronic primary insomnia: A randomized controlled trial

Basant H. El-Refaey, Olfat I. Ali, Hend H. El-Wakel

Basant H. El-Refaey, Olfat I. Ali, Hend H. El-Wakel – Effect of aerobic exercises on sleep and hormonal levels in elderly with chronic primary insomnia: A randomized controlled trial. Fizjoterapia Polska 2020; 20(1); 60-64

Abstract
Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of aerobic exercises on Pittsburg sleep quality index, serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine levels in elderly with chronic primary insomnia.
Material and methods. 40 elderly participants of both genders complaining from chronic primary insomnia were randomly assigned into two equal groups: the control group and the study group. Their age was between 60 to 70 years old. The study group had participated in a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program for 1hour/day, three times/week for three months, while the control group did not attend the exercise program but underwent the same evaluations as the study group. Pittsburg Sleep Quality index, serotonin level, epinephrine, and norepinephrine hormonal levels were evaluated before and after the treatment duration.
Results. The Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index and serotonin level showed significant improvement in the study group and the significant difference between groups favoring the study group (p < 0.05). However, no significant changes occur in epinephrine or norepinephrine levels. The control group showed non-significant changes in any of the measured variables (p > 0.05).
Conclusion. Moderate intensity aerobic exercise seems to improve sleep, enhance serotonin level in patients with chronic primary insomnia.

Key words:
Aerobic exercise, elderly, primary insomnia

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