Experts have found a link between sleep duration and dementia
Not getting enough sleep, or getting poor-quality sleep as we all know, affects how we feel in the morning. But that’s not the only issue as if you sleep wrong, it could increase your risk of dementia.
According to one study, there is an association between sleep duration in middle and old age with dementia. Published on PubMed, experts used data from 7,959 participants of the Whitehall II study who examined the association between sleep duration and incidence of dementia (521 diagnosed cases) using a 25-year follow-up.
They discovered that there was a higher dementia risk associated with a sleep duration of six hours or less at age 50 and 60, compared with a “normal” seven hour sleep duration. They explain: “Persistent short sleep duration at age 50, 60, and 70 compared to persistent normal sleep duration was also associated with a 30% increased dementia risk independently of sociodemographic, behavioural, cardiometabolic, and mental health factors.”
Because of this, their findings suggest that shorter your sleep duration in midlife is, the higher your risk is of late-onset dementia. According to Alzheimer’s Society, there are normal signs of ageing as well as signs that are not normal, which could indicate dementia.
What are normal signs of ageing?
These are not early signs of dementia and for many is normal, and all part of getting older. People may:
- forget the names of people they don’t know well
- have difficulty taking in new information as quickly they used to
- misplace items, such as keys or glasses, around the house
- miss the occasional appointment or birthday
- not be able to find the right word during a conversation
- struggle with new technology, such as apps and smart devices
- need to take a bit longer to think things through
What are the symptoms of dementia?
Dementia is a group of symptoms and is caused by different diseases that damage the brain. The symptoms of dementia may be small to start with, but get worse over time and include:
- memory loss
- confusion and needing help with daily tasks
- problems with language and understanding
- changes in behaviour
When it comes to the difference between normal ageing and dementia, the experts say that it varies from person to person. For example, you may lose track of the conversation from time to time, but if you “regularly unable to follow what someone is saying even without distractions”, this could be a sign.
Further to this, you – or a loved one – may become irritable when a routine is disrupted, but you’re able to cope with this change. However if you get upset either at home, work, or around friends and family in places you’re usually comfortable or familiar with, this is another sign.
You can read more about what signs to look out for via Alzheimer’s Society here. You can also get dementia support by calling 0333 150 3456.
If you are affected by dementia, worried about a diagnosis or a carer, trained staff are ready to give you the support you need. Opening hours:
- Mon to Weds: 9am – 8pm
- Thurs and Fri: 9am – 5pm
- Sat and Sun: 10am – 4pm
