# Investigation and analysis of sleep and mental health status among MEFCs

## TL;DR

This study examines sleep and mental health in elderly migrants who moved to be with their children, finding that health and adaptation are key factors.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific factors influencing sleep and mental health in a unique elderly migrant population.

## Key findings

- MEFCs showed normal levels of sleep and mental health based on PSQI and SCL90 scores.
- Health status and adaptation to the migration destination influenced sleep quality.
- Mental health was also impacted by family harmony, in addition to health and adaptation.

## Abstract

To investigate the sleep status and mental health of migrants elderly who followed their children (MEFC) and analyze the influencing factors.

A total of 583 MEFCs were surveyed using a general demographic questionnaire, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scale, and the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL90) scale.

The mean PSQI score for MEFCs was 6.98 ± 0.17, and the average SCL90 score was 64.06 ± 2.03. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that health status and adaptation to the migration destination were associated with PSQI scores (P < 0.05). Health status, adaptation to the migration destination, and family harmony were associated with SCL90 scores (P < 0.05). The association coefficient between the total PSQI and SCL90 scores was r=0.462 (P < 0.05).

The sleep and mental health of MEFCs were at a normal level. Health status and adaptation influenced sleep status, while health status, adaptation, and family harmony impacted mental health. However, the association between mental health and sleep status was weak.