2023-11-12 20:00:00
Title: Lack of Deep Sleep Increases Risk of Dementia in Old Age
By Judith Braun, November 12, 2023, 7:00 p.m
Sleep plays a crucial role in our overall health, and now a new study has found that a lack of deep sleep could increase the risk of developing dementia in old age. The study, conducted by research team led by Matthew Pase from the Monash School of Psychological Sciences, suggests that promoting deep sleep could help prevent dementia.
The study, featured in the specialist magazine JAMA Neurology, examined 346 people over 60 years old. The participants underwent two sleep studies, with the second study taking place an average of five years after the first. The participants were then observed for possible symptoms of dementia until 2018.
The results of the study showed that the proportion of deep sleep typically decreases with increasing age. The scientists found that in people over 60, an annual decline in deep sleep of just one percent can increase the risk of later dementia by 27 percent. These results were consistent even when controlling for factors such as age, gender, smoking status, and medication.
According to Pase, deep sleep supports the aging brain in removing metabolic waste and eliminating proteins that clump together in Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, promoting deep sleep could potentially prevent dementia in old age.
The development of dementia in old age can be influenced by various risk factors, and lifestyle plays a significant role. Factors such as sleep disturbances can have negative effects on the body and brain. While genetics play a role in only about one percent of all Alzheimer’s cases, the lifestyle can have a significant impact on the risk of developing dementia.
The new study highlights the importance of maintaining or promoting deep sleep to support brain health and reduce the risk of developing dementia in old age. As further research continues in this area, it is important for individuals to prioritize good sleep habits as a part of their overall health and wellness routine.
The article concludes by reminding readers that the information provided is general and not a substitute for individual medical advice. The editorial team also encourages readers to consult with a doctor for any specific medical concerns or conditions.]
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