Raising awareness about the role of sleep and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent potential risks, protect memory, and enhance long-term quality of life.
The phenomenon of elderly individuals often experiencing daytime sleepiness and lack of energy is not merely a sign of fatigue; it could be an early warning sign of cognitive decline and progression towards dementia.
A recent study published in the journal Neurology presented significant findings regarding the link between daytime sleepiness and Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome (MCR).
Signs of daytime sleepiness and cognitive decline risk
The study involved 445 elderly participants with an average age of 76, none of whom had a history of dementia. The research team monitored factors related to sleep quality, the frequency of daytime sleepiness, and the impact of sleep on daily activities.
The frequent daytime sleepiness and lack of energy in the elderly is not simply a sign of fatigue (Photo: Getty).
The results indicated that individuals who frequently experience excessive daytime sleepiness and show little interest in activities are three times more likely to develop MCR compared to others. This syndrome is characterized by a decrease in walking speed accompanied by memory issues and is considered an early stage of dementia.
Dr. Victoire Leroy, the lead researcher from Albert Einstein College of Medicine (USA), stated: “Sleep not only helps the body rest but also plays a crucial role in protecting and rejuvenating the brain.
Sleep issues, particularly excessive daytime sleepiness, are signals that warrant attention to prevent cognitive decline.”
Early recognition of signs such as daytime sleepiness, reduced mobility, and poor memory is crucial for prevention.
Dr. Leroy emphasized: “Improving sleep quality is not only a short-term solution but also a foundational measure to protect brain health and prevent long-term damage.”
Sleep and Brain Health: An Important Connection
Prolonged sleep deprivation increases the risk of amyloid beta accumulation, leading to neuronal damage and memory decline (Photo: Getty).
Sleep not only helps the body regenerate energy but also plays an essential role in protecting brain health. During good sleep, the brain is “cleansed” of accumulated waste, including amyloid beta, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Research from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that prolonged sleep deprivation increases the risk of amyloid beta accumulation, resulting in neuronal damage and memory decline.
Furthermore, Professor Glen Finney (Geisinger Health Sciences University, USA) noted that poor sleep is also linked to conditions such as depression, stroke, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, all of which are risk factors for dementia.
Early Recognition and Intervention Measures
Excessive daytime sleepiness often accompanies several signs, including:
- Persistent fatigue and reduced interest in activities.
- Slower walking speed or lack of coordination.
- Decreased concentration and memory.
If these symptoms persist, especially in the elderly, medical evaluation is necessary to assess the risk of MCR or other dementia-related issues.
Measures to Improve Sleep:
- Create an Ideal Sleep Environment: A quiet bedroom with appropriate lighting and comfortable temperature.
- Make Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages before bedtime.
- Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation exercises such as yoga, meditation, or journaling to reduce anxiety.
- Monitor Health: Consult a doctor if experiencing prolonged insomnia or symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are currently over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia, with projections indicating this number will double by 2050. In Vietnam, the rate of elderly individuals showing signs of cognitive decline is increasingly rising, especially among the population over 60 years old.
