Sleep and dementia are closely connected. According to neurologist and sleep physician Dr Elie Matar, changes in sleep can sometimes be one of the earliest signs that a neurodegenerative condition is developing.
‘These signs include sleep problems such as acting out dreams – which we see commonly in people with Parkinson’s and dementia with Lewy bodies – through to sleep/wake reversal (people being awake at night and asleep during the day), insomnia and sleep fragmentation,’ Dr Matar said.
At the same time, researchers are increasingly interested in whether poor sleep can contribute to the development of dementia. While the evidence is still emerging, studies suggest that ongoing sleep problems during midlife may increase a person’s risk of developing dementia later in life.
Studies suggest that ongoing sleep problems during midlife may increase a person’s risk of developing dementia later in life.
One reason may be the brain’s natural “clean-up” process.
Professor Craig Ritchie, CEO and founder of Scottish Brain Sciences, explains that during the day, proteins and waste products build up as the brain works hard. While we sleep, the brain clears away these substances, much like a garbage truck collecting rubbish overnight. When sleep is disrupted, this process may not work as effectively, allowing harmful proteins to accumulate.
Professor Ritchie has urged all of us to pay more attention to how well we sleep.
‘The brain needs to rest,’ he said. ‘I think we all go too fast during the day, and we don't sleep well at night...If there's one thing that we should try and take more control of is our ability to sleep.’
The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to support healthy sleep. Here are a few suggestions for catching that elusive slumber:
Aim for a consistent sleep schedule.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Reduce caffeine and alcohol late in the day.
Keep your bedroom cool, dark and comfortable.
Regular physical activity and exposure to natural daylight can also help regulate your body clock.
Sleep isn’t just about feeling rested; it may also be one of the most important lifestyle factors for maintaining brain health.
As both Professor Ritchie and Dr Matar emphasise, paying more attention to sleep throughout midlife and doing what we can to optimise it for better health and quality of life shouldn’t be a pipe dream. Instead, it’s something we all need to wake up to.