During the winter, many people tend to spend more time sleeping whenever possible. The cold weather in the mornings and evenings makes getting up early a challenge.
While there is nothing wrong with occasionally sleeping in, new research shows that irregular sleeping hours may increase the risk of dementia.
A recent study revealed that individuals with irregular sleep patterns are 53% more likely to develop dementia, according to the Express.
Irregular sleep hours may increase the risk of dementia. (Illustrative image)
The study, led by Australian scientists, was recently published in the journal Neurology. In this study, consistent sleep is defined as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Experts state that this is equally as important as the duration of sleep.
The study’s author, Professor Matthew Paul Pase from Monash University in Australia, explained: “Sleep health recommendations often focus on getting the recommended amount of sleep, which is 7 to 9 hours each night, but they pay less attention to maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.”
“Our findings suggest that a person’s consistent sleep habits are an important factor when considering the risk of developing dementia.”
How was the study conducted?
In the study, the research team from Monash University examined 88,094 individuals from the United Kingdom, with an average age of 62. Each participant was monitored for an average of seven years.
Their sleep duration was tracked over one week to establish their sleep schedules.
The researchers analyzed these results and ranked the regularity of each person’s sleep on a scale. Higher scores were assigned to those who went to bed at the same time each night.
For example, a person who sleeps and wakes up at the same time every day would have a sleep regularity score of 100, while someone who sleeps and wakes at different times each day would score 0.
Over the seven-year period, 480 participants were diagnosed with dementia.
The researchers found that those with irregular sleep patterns had a higher risk of developing the disease.
Specifically, individuals with irregular sleep patterns were 53% more likely to develop dementia compared to those with an average regularity score.
Professor Pase added: “Effective sleep health education combined with behavioral therapies may improve irregular sleep patterns.“
“Based on our findings, individuals with inconsistent sleep schedules may just need to improve their average sleep regularity score to prevent dementia.”
However, he also stated: “Further research is needed to confirm our findings.”
Previous studies have found links between poor sleep and numerous other health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and depression.
The National Health Service (NHS) recommends that adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
