Effect of Acupressure on Quality of Life, Sleep Quality, and Hopelessness in Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the effect of acupressure on quality of life, sleep quality, and hopelessness among older adults residing in a nursing home.

A total of 50 participants aged 65 years and older were included in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n=25) or the control group (n=25) using simple randomization. Eligibility criteria included being 65 years or older, residing in the nursing home, and having the ability to read and understand study materials. Individuals with skin lesions, infection, sensory loss in acupressure areas, or those unwilling to participate were excluded.

The intervention group received acupressure applied to bilateral Shenmen (HT7), Neiguan (P6), and Sanyinjiao (SP6) points. Each point was stimulated manually for approximately two minutes per session. The intervention was administered three times per week for four consecutive weeks by a trained researcher. The control group received routine institutional care without additional intervention.

Primary and secondary outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention. Quality of life was measured using the CASP-19 scale, sleep quality was evaluated using the Richard-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire, and hopelessness levels were measured using the Beck Hopelessness Scale.

Data were analyzed using independent-samples t tests and paired-samples t tests. The study aimed to determine whether acupressure could improve sleep quality and quality of life and reduce hopelessness in older adults. This intervention represents a low-cost, non-invasive complementary nursing approach that may support holistic elderly care.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 65 years or older
• Residing in the nursing home where the study was conducted
• Able to communicate verbally
• Able to read and understand the questionnaires
• Volunteered to participate in the study

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of skin lesions, wounds, or infection at acupressure points
• Diagnosed cognitive impairment preventing questionnaire completion
• Severe hearing or communication problems
• Receiving another complementary therapy during the study period
• Refusal to continue participation