Abstract
Older adults are at increased risk of sleep problems, which may worsen during crises such as wars. Psychosocial resources, particularly problem-focused coping and resilience, can help mitigate this risk. While research suggests that problem-focused coping enhances resilience and reduces sleep problems, the interplay between these variables remains underexplored. This study examines the relationship between problem-focused coping and sleep problems among older adults during crises, with resilience as a mediator. It focuses on older Arabs in Israel, a minority group facing both age-related vulnerabilities and socioeconomic disadvantages. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 99 older Arabs (65+), recruited from senior centers using convenience sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews between August and October 2024, during the Israel-Hamas war. Among participants, 77% reported recent sleep problems. Those with sleep issues exhibited lower levels of problem-focused coping (Mean = 1.37 vs. 1.64, p < 0.05) and resilience (Mean = 2.15 vs. 2.93, p < 0.0001). Mediation analysis revealed that problem-focused coping was significantly associated with resilience (b=0.9923, SE=0.1626, p<0.0001), and resilience was significantly associated with sleep problems (b=1.0739, SE=0.4233, p<0.05). The direct effect of problem-focused coping on sleep problems was not significant (b=0.2349, p>0.05), but the indirect effect via resilience was significant (b=1.0656, CI[0.3644-2.9477]), indicating full mediation. Strengthening resilience through problem-focused coping interventions may help reduce sleep problems among older Arabs, particularly during crises. These findings underscore the need for targeted psychosocial programs to improve coping mechanisms and enhance well-being in minority older adults.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Sleep Problems, Resilience, Problem-Focused Coping, Ethnic Minority Group
