The synergistic impact of sleep quality, mental health, and cognitive function on dynamic balance in adults

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Sport Science, School of Humanities, Damghan University, Damghan

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University

10.22034/mmbj.2026.67150.1178

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the simultaneous effects of sleep quality, mental health, and cognitive performance on dynamic balance in adults. In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study, 83 participants (52 men and 31 women) with a mean age of 44.70 years were recruited. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), mental health with the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), and cognitive performance with the Stroop test. Dynamic balance was measured using an Iranian-made dynamic balance device. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between dynamic balance and all three variables in both genders. Multiple regression analysis showed that, among men, mental health, sleep quality, and cognitive performance significantly predicted dynamic balance. Among women, only mental health and cognitive performance were significant predictors, while sleep quality was not. Altogether, these three factors explained more than 50% of the variance in dynamic balance in both men and women. Mental health emerged as the strongest predictor of dynamic balance across genders. Gender differences were noted, with sleep quality playing a greater role in men’s balance than women’s. These findings emphasize the importance of a multifactorial approach to improving balance, including enhancing sleep quality, promoting mental health, and strengthening cognitive functions. The results have practical implications for the design of preventive, rehabilitative, and health promotion programs among middle-aged adults. Considering the crucial role of dynamic balance in daily activities and fall prevention, addressing sleep, mental health, and cognitive factors simultaneously may provide a more effective strategy for enhancing balance and overall well-being.

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History

  • Receive Date: 05 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 June 2025
  • Accept Date: 11 February 2026

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