Health

Daytime Sleepiness Could Be A Red Flag For Early Cognitive Decline, Study Finds

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A newly published study has raised alarm about the connection between daytime sleepiness and a condition that may signal the onset of dementia. This condition, termed motoric cognitive risk syndrome, is marked by memory difficulties and slower walking speeds—early indicators of cognitive decline that can develop before dementia officially sets in.

The link between daytime sleepiness and cognitive decline

In this study, researchers explored the connection between sleep disturbances and cognitive health by examining data from 445 adults with an average age of 76 who were dementia-free at the start. The participants completed sleep questionnaires that delved into factors such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, temperature-related sleep discomfort, and the impact of sleep disturbances on daily functioning and enthusiasm for activities. They were also asked about their level of daytime sleepiness.

Over the course of the study, which lasted nearly three years, 42 individuals were initially identified with motoric cognitive risk syndrome, which involves slower walking and mild memory issues. Additionally, 36 more participants developed the syndrome during the follow-up period.

Notably, those who reported excessive daytime sleepiness or a lack of enthusiasm for daily activities were more than three times more likely to develop the syndrome compared to those who did not report such sleep-related issues. The findings were published in Neurology.

“Our study shows just how precious sleep is to preserve,” stated lead study author Victoire Leroy, MD, PhD, of Albert Einstein College of Medicine. “Sleep issues affecting daytime wakefulness seem to be most related to later cognitive risk.”

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What this means for early detection of cognitive decline

While the study highlighted a clear association between sleep disturbances and the development of motoric cognitive risk syndrome, it did not aim to establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Researchers did not measure the actual quantity or quality of sleep but instead relied on participants’ self-reports, a limitation that could impact the accuracy of findings. Further studies are needed to investigate whether improving sleep can directly prevent the progression of motoric cognitive risk syndrome or dementia.

This research, however, underscores the importance of recognizing sleep issues early. Identifying these problems early in life, particularly in older adults, could be crucial in preventing the onset of conditions like dementia.

Sleep’s role in maintaining brain health

Experts have long known that sleep is vital for brain function and overall health. Glen Finney, MD, a neurology professor at Geisinger College of Health Sciences in Pennsylvania, notes that poor sleep can contribute to motoric cognitive risk syndrome, alongside other health issues such as heart disease, depression, and obesity.

“The body needs sleep to reset many biological functions and to better rebuild the body after use during the day,” Dr. Finney explained. “In the brain, in particular, many waste products produced during an active day are better cleared during restful sleep, and neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers between neurons, can restock better as well.”

Sleep also plays a critical role in memory consolidation, which may explain why sleep deprivation is associated with cognitive decline.

Addressing sleep disturbances for better health outcomes

Experts emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of sleep disturbances. For example, Marie-Pierre St-Onge, PhD, an expert in sleep research at Columbia University, recommends investigating factors such as room temperature, light, and noise levels, which can all negatively impact sleep quality.

“If there’s too much noise or light in the room, or if the room is too hot or too cold, these issues can disrupt sleep,” Dr. St-Onge pointed out. “Using noise-reducing blackout curtains and ensuring a cool room can help.”

Stress, poor diet, and a lack of physical activity can also be contributing factors to sleep problems. Keeping a journal to track these lifestyle issues may help pinpoint underlying causes.

Practical tips for enhancing sleep quality

To optimize sleep and overall health, experts recommend setting a consistent sleep schedule, making the bedroom as quiet and dark as possible, and seeking professional help if sleep problems persist.

Kristen Knutson, PhD, an associate professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, suggests that anyone experiencing ongoing sleep difficulties should consult a healthcare provider, especially if snoring or other symptoms of sleep disorders are present.

“If someone still doesn’t sleep well, particularly if they snore, they should speak to their doctor about a possible sleep disorder,” Dr. Knutson advised.

Sleep as a predictor of cognitive health

As research continues to shed light on the relationship between sleep disturbances and cognitive decline, it becomes increasingly clear that sleep is not only vital for physical health but may also serve as an early warning sign of conditions like dementia. By prioritizing sleep and addressing disturbances early, individuals may be able to take proactive steps toward maintaining cognitive health as they age.