Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in older adults: A meta-analysis

Background: Aromatherapy has been proposed as a complementary therapy to enhance sleep quality and regulate mood. However, few studies have specifically examined the efficacy of aromatherapy in managing sleep disorders in older adults. Therefore, the present study aims to systematically review the impact of aromatherapy on sleep quality among older adults. Methods: It employed a meta-analysis design. A systematic and comprehensive search was conducted across 7 databases to identify randomized controlled trials examining the effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality in older adults. Two researchers independently assessed the quality of the literature. The study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis checklist. Results: Aromatherapy demonstrated effectiveness in improving sleep quality among older adults (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.38 to -0.66; P < .001). Subgroup analyses based on aroma types, intervention modalities, and treatment durations revealed enhanced efficacy with lavender as the sole aroma (SMD = -1.39; 95% CI = -2.06 to -0.72; P < .001), non-inhaled aromatherapy (SMD = -1.73; 95% CI = -2.26 to -1.2; P < .001), and aromatherapy administered for less than 4 weeks (SMD = -1.16; 95% CI = -1.68 to -0.64; P < .001). Notably, significant effects of aromatherapy on anxiety (SMD = -0.83; 95% CI = -1.24 to -0.42; P < .001) and depression (SMD = -0.85; 95% CI = -1.30 to -0.39; P < .001) in older adults were also observed. Conclusion: This study indicates that aromatherapy improves sleep quality in older adults, with single-use lavender, non-inhalation aromatherapy, lasting less than 4 weeks being particularly effective. Aromatherapy also alleviates depression, but its effects on anxiety require further evaluation.