Comparing the Stroop Test Scores Between Older Adults With and Without Sleep Problems in Maragheh, Iran

This study aimed to compare the Stroop test scores between older adults with and without sleep problems in Maragheh, Iran.

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. Using a convenience sampling method, 100 older adults aged ≥58 years referred to the adult day care centers in Maragheh City, East Azerbaijan province, Iran in 2023, were selected. Based on the sleep quality index score, they were divided into two groups without sleep problems (n=42) and with sleep problems (n=58). Data analysis was conducted in SPSS software, version 24.

The mean age of older adults without sleep problems was 67±5 years, while it was 66±5 years for older adults with sleep problems. In the Stroop test, the results showed that the mean difference between the two groups was significant in the percentage of incorrect answers (P=0.028) and response time (P=0.004). The difference in the percentage of correct answers was not significant (P=0.080). There was a significant relationship between age and Stroop test score (P<0.001), but there was no significant relationship between BMI and Stroop test.

There are impaired inhibitory control and selective attention in older adults with sleep problems. Therefore, sleep quality may be one of the factors affecting executive functions of older adults.