Sleep quality may increase dementia risk: Latest evidence

• Medical News Today has recently covered several pieces of research that support a strong link between sleep and dementia risk.
• One of these studies, using MRI scans, found that people with a weaker glymphatic system—which clears toxins from the brain during sleep—have a higher risk of dementia.
• Another study found that moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea may raise the risk of tiny brain bleeds, which could increase the chances of dementia and stroke.
• And another study suggested that people with chronic insomnia may be at a greater risk of developing dementia or mild cognitive impairment, which has been linked to faster brain aging.

Sleep is an important part of overall health. The amount and quality of sleep people get can affect various aspects of health, including the heart and circulatory system, the respiratory system, and cognitive functions such as thinking and memory.

Recent research has found that getting enough sleep and having good quality sleep may also play an important role in an individual’s risk of developing dementia.

In this study roundup, Medical News Today shares three key findings from the latest research that highlight and further confirm the connection between sleep and dementia risk.