About the project
The focus of this project is to develop an intervention method aimed at reducing the inappropriate use of sleeping pills among older adults.
Previous studies have indicated that the use of strong painkillers, sleeping pills, and/or sedatives is associated with several negative outcomes, including addiction, lower quality of life, cognitive decline, loneliness, increased pain, and multimorbidity.
Methode
To address these concerns, the project will conduct a two-armed randomized controlled trial.
Objectives
The study aims to test the effectiveness of a brief behavioral intervention designed to stop or reduce the use of sleeping pills among older adults.
The primary research question is whether a simple intervention can successfully reduce regular use of sleeping pills among older patients.
In addition, the project seeks to investigate whether the associations identified in previous studies are reversible, thus providing insights into causality.
By evaluating the impact of the intervention, the project aims to determine if the negative outcomes associated with the use of sleeping pills can be mitigated or reversed.
Based on previous experience, the project identifies general practitioners as the ideal level for implementing the intervention. The primary care setting is considered well-suited for the delivery of this intervention method, ensuring that it reaches a wide population of older adults who may be at risk of inappropriate use of sleeping pills.
About the group
The research team involved in this project includes experts in fields such as geriatrics, primary care, and behavioral interventions.
Goals
The ultimate goal of this study is to develop an effective intervention strategy that can help reduce the misuse of sleeping pills among older adults, thereby improving their overall well-being and health outcomes.
Financing
- The South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority