Study of Positive Airway Pressure Therapy Effects on Sleep and Quality of Life in Veterans Over 60 With COPD and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Overlap Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of positive airway pressure PAP therapy on clinical outcomes in older Veterans with Overlap Syndrome OVS, a condition where obstructive sleep apnea OSA coexists with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD. This complex condition is associated with increased risks of cognitive problems, poor sleep quality, and reduced quality of life QoL. The study aims to understand how PAP therapy influences sleepiness, sleep quality, cognitive function, and overall QoL in this population. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one group will receive conservative care that includes education about sleep apnea and sleep hygiene through handouts and videos, while the other group will receive PAP therapy, which involves the use of devices providing continuous or noninvasive positive airway pressure. Those in the PAP therapy group will be titrated to an optimal therapy setting following standard procedures. The study will compare the effects of PAP therapy versus usual care and also explore whether continuous PAP is as effective as noninvasive ventilation. During the study, participants will undergo assessments at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months to measure changes in neurocognitive function, sleepiness, sleep quality, and quality of life using various tests and questionnaires. Researchers will also monitor hours of PAP use, patient preferences, fatigue severity, sleep-dependent memory, and blood markers. The study includes safety and adherence monitoring, with overall participation spanning at least 6 months to evaluate the therapys impact comprehensively.

Impact of Positive Airway Pressure Therapy on Clinical Outcomes in Older Veterans With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Comorbid Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Overlap Syndrome)