Sleep Dysfunction Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

Sleep Dysfunction Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

cnn.com

Sleep Dysfunction Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

A new study reveals a strong link between daytime sleep dysfunction in older adults and an increased risk of developing motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), a precursor to dementia.

English
United States
HealthLifestyleDementiaAgingSleepCognitive
Tours University HospitalNeurologyInstitute For Neurodegenerative DiseasesUniversity Of EdinburghCentral Control Of Mobility And Aging
Victoire LeroyRichard IsaacsonTara Spires-Jones
What methodology did the researchers use to collect data in this study?
The study, published in Neurology, followed 445 adults for about three years, assessing their sleep quality and gait. Daytime dysfunction, a component of poor sleep, showed a strong association with MCR development.
What is the main finding of the study regarding sleep and dementia risk?
Excessive daytime sleepiness and lack of enthusiasm in older adults are linked to a higher risk of developing motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), which increases the risk of dementia.
What are the limitations of the study, and what future research is needed?
While the study highlights the link between daytime sleep dysfunction and MCR, it acknowledges limitations such as self-reported sleep data and a predominantly white participant group. Further research is needed to confirm the findings.
What are the potential mechanisms linking poor sleep to an increased risk of MCR?
Experts suggest several mechanisms might explain the association, including sleep's role in clearing neurotoxins and the potential for brain inflammation. However, reverse causation—early dementia causing sleep disruption—is also possible.
What recommendations are given for individuals concerned about their sleep and dementia risk?
Individuals experiencing sleep problems should consult their doctors, consider sleep questionnaires or studies, and explore treatment options. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and addressing hearing loss, can also help improve brain health.