Materials and Method: A total of 428 elders were included in the research. The research data were collected using the loneliness scale (UCLA-LS) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). One-way analysis of variance, t test and Pearson analysis of correlation were used to evaluate the data.
Results: The average loneliness score was 41.87±8.43. The average loneliness score of those living in the nursing home was higher than that of those living in the home environment. The relationship between the average loneliness score and age, educational background, childbearing, and the number of visitors were significant (p<0.05). The average sleep quality score was 6.21±3.33. Educational background, income status, childbearing, having a chronic disease, number of visitors, and duration of residence in the nursing home were found to affect the quality of sleep (p<0.05). A slightly positive relationship (r=0.298; p=0.001) was observed between the average loneliness score and the quality of sleep score.
Conclusion: Loneliness and sleep problems are common among elders. In order to improve their quality of life and health status, health care providers should recognize and take necessary actions to alleviate these problems.
Keywords : Elderly; Loneliness; UCLA Loneliness Scale; Sleep Disturbance; Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index