Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain function, and although there is currently no cure, it’s important to pick up on warning signs as soon as possible
While most of us associate dementia with memory loss, it’s not the only symptom. Dementia can affect how you speak, think, feel and behave, leading to a range of symptoms that impact your entire body – some of which are less obvious.
Dementia is a syndrome linked to an ongoing decline in brain function. Although there’s no cure at present, early detection of warning signs can help those affected receive treatment and support sooner.
Now, experts from Winstons Beds have raised the alarm about subtle changes in sleeping patterns as a potential ‘silent alarm’ for dementia. Numerous studies suggest that alterations in sleep patterns during middle age could signal the condition.
According to many research studies, changes in sleeping patterns during our mid-life could be an indicator of the condition. The studies show links between people who slept fewer than six hours during middle age, and the likelihood of developing dementia. It found that they were more likely to develop the condition than those who had seven or more hours.
There’s evidence that those who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia often struggle with changing sleep patterns. Experts believe certain parts of the brain control the sleep-wake cycles, which cause these shifts. For those with dementia, it’s believed the shift to poor sleep is caused by the protein amyloid. It’s seen that patients with Alzheimer’s usually have higher levels of amyloid in their brains, causing disrupted sleep.
Research has also found that too little sleep could be a contributing factor to dementia, so experts recommend getting seven to eight hours of restful sleep a night to allow the brain the time it needs for ‘essential repair and maintenance’. Isaah Reese, a stalwart in the mattress industry with over 20 years of expertise and a renowned sleep expert at Winstons Beds, said: “Sleep is the foundation of health – without it, muscles won’t grow, hearts won’t thrive, and stress won’t subside. Deprive yourself of rest now, and you’ll pay the price later. For the sake of your well-being and those you cherish, make sleep your ultimate luxury.”
TLC Care Services also recently took to TikTok to highlight the link between dementia and sleep disturbances. They said: “They [people with dementia] may wake frequently, have trouble falling sleep, or take daytime naps. These problems can signal the onset of dementia and cause memory loss.
“Chronic insomnia, particularly in midlife, has been linked in several studies to an increased risk of dementia in later life. Common underlying causes including ageing, stress, sadness and certain medical disorders can affect both dementia and sleeplessness.”
Consistency is key when it comes to sleep routines, so experts suggest adhering to the same schedule daily. To unwind before bed and promote better sleleep hygiene, activities like reading or meditation are encouraged, as well as limiting screen exposure an hour before bedtime. Should there be a sudden change in your sleeping habits, don’t be alarmed; the causes could range from stress and anxiety to external noise or the effects of alcohol and caffeine consumption.
If concerns persist or you experience other symptoms possibly indicative of dementia, it’s recommended to consult with a doctor.
