Key Research Articles

Key research papers are selected from a wide variety of peer reviewed journals and are judged to be of major importance in their respective fields.

Clinical Trials

Psychology Progress features clinical trials that are considered to be of key importance in advancing the field of Psychiatry.

Neuroscience Breakthroughs

Psychology Progress features breaking Neuroscience research judged by the advisory team.

Psychologist Profile

Prominent figures in Psychology are featured to highlight their biographies and accomplishments

Events

Notable conferences, summits and other meetings for research discussion and promotion.

Home » Key Research Articles

The Contribution of Heart Failure to Sleep Disturbances and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults

Print Friendly

Johansson P, Riegel B, Svensson E, Broström A, Alehagen U, Dahlström U, Jaarsma T. J Geriatr
Psychiatry Neurology, September 2012 vol. 25 no. 3 179-187

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the associations between physical symptoms, sleep disturbances, and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling elderly individuals, comparing persons with and without heart failure (HF). Methods: A total of 613 older adults (mean age 78 years) underwent clinical and echocardiographic examinations. Questionnaires were used to evaluate sleep disturbances and depressive symptoms. A model was developed in those with HF (n = 107) and compared with those without HF (n = 506). Results: Cardiopulmonary symptoms (ie, dyspnea and nighttime palpitations) and pain had significant direct associations with sleep disturbances, which indirectly affected depressive symptoms. The model was essentially the same in those with and without HF except that the effect of sleep disturbances on depressive symptoms was stronger in those with HF (β = 0.64 vs β = 0.45, P = .006). Conclusion: In community-dwelling older adults, regardless of their diagnosis, physical symptoms had a direct effect on sleep disturbances and an indirect effect on depressive symptoms.

Copyright © 2013 by SAGE Publications

Read Full Article