Associations among Sleep, Diet, Quality of Life, and Subjective Health

Objective: We set out to improve understanding of the health behaviors of older adults by examining the interrelationships of a low-fat diet and subjective measures of sleep. Methods: Older adults (N = 126) completed a paper-and-pencil questionnaire about sleep, health behaviors, quality of life, and subjective health. Results: Path analysis revealed sleep quality was related to daytime functioning, which was positively interrelated with quality of life and subjective health. The positive relationship between low-fat diet and quality of life may be connected to increased daytime functioning. Conclusion: Together with a healthy diet, sleep seems to play a role for older adults in maintaining a functional and healthy lifestyle, improved quality of life, and a positive perception of health.