Daytime Sleepiness Linked To Pre-Dementia Syndrome

Drowsiness could lead to something worse.

A new study suggests that seniors who experience excessive daytime sleepiness and lack enthusiasm for activities may be at an increased risk of developing a brain condition linked to dementia. This condition, known as motoric cognitive risk syndrome, is characterized by slow walking speed and some memory problems, which can be early indicators of cognitive decline.

The research found that seniors with these sleep-related issues are more than three times more likely to develop motoric cognitive risk syndrome compared to those without these symptoms. The study, published on November 6 in the journal Neurology, underscores the potential connection between sleep disturbances and cognitive decline, though more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this link.

For the study, researchers analyzed 445 individuals, averaging 76 years of age, all of whom were free from dementia at the start. Participants were asked about their sleep habits and memory problems, and their walking speed was regularly assessed on a treadmill. Over an average of three years, 42 participants already had motoric cognitive risk syndrome, and 36 more developed the condition during the follow-up period.

Among the seniors with excessive daytime sleepiness and lack of enthusiasm, 36% developed motoric cognitive risk syndrome, compared to just 7% of those without these issues. While the study shows an association, it does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between sleep disturbances and the syndrome. However, researchers emphasize that maintaining good sleep habits could play a protective role in preserving brain health as people age.

Dr. Victoire Leroy, a researcher at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, highlighted the importance of screening for sleep problems as part of efforts to prevent cognitive decline later in life. She suggests that addressing sleep issues early could potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia-related conditions in older adults.