Dementia is a disease that often develops slowly. For this reason, researchers are looking for early signs that can be detected long before a diagnosis is made.
According to recent research, some of these signs may appear at night, without the affected person being aware of it.
Researchers from Seoul National University Bundang Hospital have examined a rare sleep disorder that affects around two percent of older adults.
The condition has previously been regarded as an isolated problem, but new data point to a possible link with brain health.
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Decline in cognitive abilities
In a study published in Sleep, the researchers followed 162 people diagnosed with isolated REM Sleep Behavior Disorder over several years.
Participants underwent repeated tests of memory and attention. According to the researchers, the results showed a gradual decline in these functions over time.
The study also revealed differences between the sexes. Men experienced a greater decline in cognitive abilities than women.
The researchers emphasize, however, that these are observational findings and do not provide a direct explanation for why this development occurs.
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Sleep as a warning sign
The condition occurs during REM sleep, when the body is normally completely relaxed.
In some people, this relaxation disappears, and the person may talk, shout, or move violently during sleep.
Often, it is a partner who notices the problem, for example through unexplained punches or kicks during the night.
According to a study published in the British Journal of General Practice, the condition often occurs in people who later develop Parkinson’s disease or certain forms of dementia.
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This means that the sleep disorder may, in some cases, be an early sign, but researchers point out that more knowledge is still needed before it can be used in practice.
Sources: LADbible, Sleep, and British Journal of General Practice.
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