BACKGROUND:
Sleep quality and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) are important factors for healthy aging, yet are understudied among Nigerian elders. We determined the prevalence of poor sleep quality, assessed HRQOL, identified factors associated with poor sleep quality, and determined the association between sleep quality and HRQOL among Nigerian elders.

METHODS:
In a multistage, community-based cross-sectional survey of 400 elders ≥65 years in Ife East/Central LGAs, PSQI (>5 = poor sleep quality) and WHOQOL BREF measured sleep quality and HRQOL. We obtained ethical approval (IPH/OAU/12/2484) and informed consent. Descriptive statistics summarized demographics; χ² tests and multivariable logistic regression identified sleep quality predictors and quantified associations with good HRQOL (STATA 17; p < 0.05).

RESULTS:
Poor sleep prevalence was 75.8%. Elderly males experienced poor sleep quality (81%; p=0.039). The mean HRQOL composite score was 76.1%. Being married (χ²=8.64, p=0.034; AOR 3.1, 95% CI 1.8–5.5) and having <4 children (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–4.0) independently predicted good sleep. Those who had a very good quality of sleep had 3.4 times higher odds of good HRQOL (AOR 3.4, 95% CI 1.1–10.3).

CONCLUSIONS:
Poor sleep quality is prevalent among Nigerian elders and is a strong predictor of poor HRQOL. Older adults should be encouraged to adopt healthy sleep hygiene practices. Education, families, and caregivers have a role to play in supporting the sleep health of Nigerian elders. Interventions targeting enhanced social support, screening for sleep disorders, public awareness campaigns, and proper management of sleep-related conditions would yield greater improvements for sleep quality and overall health-related quality of life.