A Scoping Review of the Application of Non-Pharmacological Interventions in Elderly Patients with Sleep Disorders

doi:10.12104/j.issn.1674-4748.2025.16.019

Abstract：Objective: To conduct a scoping review of the application of non-pharmacological interventions in elderly patients with sleep disorders, to understand the current status of non-pharmacological interventions, and to provide reference for clinical staff to carry out related interventions. Methods: Based on the Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review Guidelines, computer searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database for relevant studies. The search period was from the establishment of the databases to January 31, 2024. The included literature was screened, analyzed, and discussed. Results: A total of 40 studies were included, all of which were randomized controlled trials. The intervention content elements were divided into aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, physical therapy methods, traditional Chinese medicine interventions, and combined interventions. Evaluation indicators included effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness, and patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Non-pharmacological interventions have shown positive effects on elderly patients with sleep disorders, and combined traditional Chinese medicine interventions are more popular among elderly patients with sleep disorders. In the future, based on the syndrome differentiation and nursing of traditional Chinese medicine and the characteristics of sleep disorders in the elderly, the role of combined traditional Chinese medicine interventions in improving sleep in the elderly can be further developed, and scientific, standardized, and applicable non-pharmacological intervention programs can be formulated.