Introduction / background
Sleep disturbance is highly prevalent amongst older adults, yet remains under-addressed in community health. Sleep is predominantly addressed in a tertiary or MBS service in Australia, which poses barriers for older adults. Occupational Therapists can effectively address sleep in a community setting by combining evidence-based behavioural sleep interventions with occupation-based approaches.

Method / Implementation
The 'Sleep Well' group, an 8-week group program implemented by Occupational Therapist demonstrates an effective model of practice for working with older adults with chronic sleep disturbances. The intervention adapts and integrates Cognitive-Behavioral-Therapy for Insomnia components alongside occupation-based interventions to an older adult cohort. Both qualitative and quantitative outcome measures are used to measure sleep efficiency, mood and anxiety, functional outcomes and insomnia severity. Secondary factors such as nocturia, which is highlight prevent in older adults, is addressed by a Continence Nurse.

Discussion/outcomes
Participants demonstrate improved sleep satisfaction, sleep duration and efficiency, a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms and increased engagement in meaningful activities. Qualitative reflections highlighted increased awareness of behavioural and environmental contributors to sleep disturbance. Practical barriers for the older adult cohort included managing multiple medical appointments and comorbidities, which affects attendance and adherence to interventions.

Relevance to occupational therapy practice
Findings reinforce the role of OT in promoting sleep as a health-supporting occupation for older adults. The study contributes emerging evidence for community-based sleep interventions specific to older adults and highlights practical outcome measures for evaluation. Results support embedding structured, occupation-based sleep programs within a community setting.