Standardized Acupressure to Improve Sleep Quality in Older Adults with Insomnia: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

Background: Insomnia is prevalent among older adults and is associated with physical discomfort, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life. Although acupressure is commonly used as a complementary physiotherapy intervention to promote relaxation and sleep comfort, existing evidence has predominantly emphasized quantitative outcomes, with limited attention to older adults’ lived experiences.
Objective: To explore the lived experiences of older adults with insomnia who underwent a standardized acupressure protocol in a community-based physiotherapy setting.
Methods: A qualitative case study design was employed. Two older adults with insomnia received a standardized six-day acupressure intervention targeting HT7, PC6, SP6, and KI1. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations during therapy sessions, and sleep diaries. Reflexive thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s approach, was conducted. Methodological rigor was enhanced through data triangulation, independent coding, member checking, and confirmation of data saturation.
Results: Three themes emerged: (1) physical and emotional discomfort prior to therapy, (2) relaxation experienced during acupressure, and (3) improved subjective sleep experiences following therapy. Participants reported reduced sleep latency, fewer nocturnal awakenings, enhanced relaxation, and decreased pre-sleep anxiety. Observational findings corroborated these self-reported experiences.
Conclusion: Standardized acupressure was perceived as a safe and acceptable physiotherapy intervention that promoted relaxation and improved the subjective sleep experience among older adults with insomnia. These findings support the integration of acupressure into holistic, community-based physiotherapy care.