Demographic Influences on Sleep Quality in Caregivers of Children with Intellectual Disabilities: Implications for the 3rd SDGs
Authors: Saputra Donalry Agus , Amin Mustafa M. , Camellia Vita , Effendy Elmeida 
Published: February 2025

Objective: To examine the influence of demographic variables (age, gender, education, marital status, work status, and income) on sleep quality among caregivers of children with intellectual impairments at School for Students with Special Needs E Negeri Pembina, Medan Helvetia district, North Sumatera Province. The study aims to identify the at-risk caregiver population and offer evidence-based insights for the formulation of targeted mental health interventions, so contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of health and well-being.

Theoretical Framework: This section encompasses the theoretical framework that underpins the research. This article elucidates that sleep quality among caregivers of children with intellectual impairments correlates with several demographic characteristics, including age, gender, education, marital status, employment, and income. The theory employed encompasses the comprehension of sleep quality as the metric of mental and physical well-being.

Method: The research used a cross-sectional design and multivariate linear regression analysis. The sample comprised 139 respondents chosen by a non-probability sampling technique. (consecutive sampling). Data were gathered via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), which has been validated within the Indonesian context. The analysis utilized the SPSS software, commencing with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test to evaluate normality, subsequently employing either Pearson or Spearman correlation tests based on the data on the data distribution.

Results and Discussion: The findings of this research suggest a considerable correlation between sleep quality and other demographic characteristics. Younger caregivers, women, individuals with lower educational attainment, unmarried or jobless persons, and those with low incomes demonstrate increased sleep disruptions. These findings correspond with or contrast with earlier studies, which are examined thoroughly to offer context and substantiate the results. The discourse underscores themes identified in analogous studies, accentuating the distinctive contributions and ramifications of this study for treatments aimed at at-risk caregiver populations.

Research Implications: This research highlights the urgent necessity to attend to the psychological welfare of caregivers for children with intellectual disabilities, especially among vulnerable demographic segments, including young, female, less-educated, unmarried, unemployed, or low-income caregivers. The results offer significant evidence to guide the formulation of specific policy interventions and support initiatives intended enhance sleep quality. These treatments may encompass mental health counselling, educational training, financial aid, or employment support according to the needs of these caregivers. This research difficulties that enhance caregiver well-being and fits with global objectives, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) pertaining to health and well-being.

Originality/Value: This research is original as it is one of the first studies in North Sumatra to examine the relationship between demographic factors and sleep quality among caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, the use of validated measurement tools tailored to the Indonesian context enhances the local relevance of the research findings.