Association of the Interaction Between Nutritional Status and Frailty Level with Sleep Quality in Elder Adults

Shaoting Yang^1,2Yumeng Zhang^1,2Xiaoli Yuan^1*Zhixia Jiang^3*Heting Liang¹Qingyun Mao²Honghong Wen²Yan Xiong²Yunting Li²

• ¹Department of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, China
• ²Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou Province, China
• ³Guiyang Nursing Vocational College, Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China

Background: Sleep quality decline is common among the elderly, affecting their physical and mental health and reducing quality of life. Research shows a notable link between elderly nutritional status, frailty, and sleep quality. Objective: This study delves into the interaction between elderly nutritional status and frailty on sleep quality, aiming to offer scientific strategies for improving sleep. Methods: Via convenience sampling, a one - year cross - sectional survey was conducted on 14,021 seniors aged 60+ from 7 medical facilities, 3 communities, and 5 nursing homes in Zunyi, Guizhou. The survey covered general data, FRAIL Scale, MNA - SF, and PSQI. Logistic regression explored relationships, and a generalized linear model evaluated interactions. Results: Of the 14,021 elderly, 24.3% had poor sleep. Factors like gender, age, education, residence, income, habits, social engagement, physicals, exercise, and support was significantly associated with sleep quality (all p < 0.05). Logistic regression affirmed nutritional status (OR = 1.076-1.193) and frailty (OR =3.472 - 6.050) . After controlling variables, generalized linear model showed nutritional status (B = 0.007), frailty (B = 1.145), and their interaction (B = 0.214), being significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Malnutrition and frailty synergistically exacerbate sleep disturbances in older adults. Integrated interventions targeting nutritional support and frailty mitigation are critical to improving sleep health in this vulnerable population.