As we age, changes in sleep patterns become more common, but new research suggests that excessive daytime sleepiness in elderly women could be more than just fatigue—it may be linked to a higher risk of developing dementia.
Sleep Is Essential for Brain Health
Quality sleep is crucial for memory, concentration, and cognitive function. It allows the brain to process information and clear out toxins, reducing the risk of neurological decline.
Daytime Sleepiness May Indicate Underlying Issues
Feeling excessively sleepy during the day could be a sign that the body’s internal clock is disrupted. It may also be a symptom of other health conditions that contribute to cognitive decline.
Women in Their 80s May Be at Higher Risk
A study found that elderly women who experienced increasing daytime sleepiness over five years were twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those with stable sleep patterns.
Changes in Circadian Rhythm Play a Role
The body’s internal clock regulates when we feel awake or sleepy. As this rhythm becomes more erratic with age, it can contribute to sleep disturbances and, potentially, cognitive decline.
Napping Too Much May Be a Red Flag
While short naps can be beneficial, excessive daytime sleep may indicate that the brain is struggling to regulate wakefulness, a possible early sign of dementia-related changes.
Poor Nighttime Sleep May Lead to More Daytime Fatigue
Frequent awakenings, lower sleep quality, and shorter sleep duration at night can make the body compensate by increasing daytime drowsiness, which may be linked to dementia risk.
Sleep Patterns Can Change Rapidly
The study showed that sleep habits in elderly women shifted significantly in just five years, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring of sleep health as we age.
Not All Sleep Disruptions Are Linked to Dementia
Interestingly, researchers did not find a strong connection between worsening nighttime sleep and dementia risk, suggesting that daytime sleepiness may be a more critical factor.
Future Research Is Needed to Understand the Link
Scientists believe that studying overall sleep patterns—including nighttime rest, daytime naps, and circadian rhythm changes—can provide a clearer picture of how sleep affects dementia risk.
Addressing Sleep Issues May Help Reduce Risk
While more research is needed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing health conditions, and engaging in activities that support brain health may help lower the risk of cognitive decline.
This article is based on information from News Medical