Evening Screen Content and Sleep Architecture in Older Adults: Crossover RCT

Launched by BLEKINGE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · May 31, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating how the type of content we watch on our digital devices in the evening affects sleep in older adults. Specifically, it will compare the effects of calming content, like nature videos, versus exciting content, such as action movies, as well as activities that don’t involve screens at all. The goal is to see which type of evening activity leads to better sleep quality and overall sleep patterns in people aged 60 to 75 who regularly use digital devices.

To participate, individuals must be between 60 and 75 years old and use devices like smartphones or tablets in the evening. Participants will wear a special headband that monitors their sleep patterns during the study. However, those with diagnosed sleep disorders, severe cognitive impairments, or who take certain sleep medications will not be eligible. This study hopes to provide insights that could help older adults improve their sleep through better choices in evening activities.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion Criteria
• • 1. Age 60 - 75 years
• • 2. Regular evening use of digital devices (e.g., smartphones or tablets)
• • 3. Willing and able to wear an EEG headband for sleep monitoring throughout the intervention
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Diagnosed sleep disorder
• • 2. Severe cognitive impairment
• • 3. Current use of medications that significantly influence sleep (e.g., melatonin, benzodiazepines)