A Qualitative Study of Sleep and Daily Routines From Focus Groups With Chinese and Bangladeshi American Older Adults Living in New York City

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to collect qualitative data to understand the nature of sleep and sleep difficulties among Asian American older adults and identify daily routines that may lend insight into modifiable targets for future nursing interventions. We recruited Chinese and Bangladeshi older adults with low English proficiency from community-based settings in New York City. Eligible participants were aged ≥55 years and reported China or Bangladesh as their country of origin. Focus groups were conducted in their native language. Participants completed a questionnaire before joining the discussion. Participants ( N = 32) were 57% Chinese American and 43% Bangladeshi American. Average age was 73 years, 50% of the sample reported diabetes, and 22% reported sleep apnea. Our analysis revealed the daily routines among Chinese and Bangladeshi American older adults. Both groups reported general sleep difficulties and sleep difficulties related to health conditions as well as some subgroup differences. Future research may consider designing tailored nursing interventions to improve sleep among these groups. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47 (12), 35–41.]