“Regular age-related fatigue might involve feeling tired after physical exertion or a long day.
In contrast, the sleep issues studied here include excessive daytime sleepiness (falling asleep during meals or social activities) and a marked lack of enthusiasm for daily tasks,” Dr. Porter said.
Research suggests that sleep disturbances in midlife, such as chronic insomnia or sleep apnea, could contribute to neurodegenerative changes that manifest as dementia later in life.
People in middle age can take several steps to reduce the risk of future sleep problems.
Addressing any sleep disturbances early on, like sleep apnea or chronic insomnia, can also help mitigate long-term cognitive risks.”
Feeling exhausted after a long day or physical exertion is one sign of regular age-related fatigue. Conversely, excessive daytime sleepiness (falling asleep during meals or social activities) and a noticeable lack of enthusiasm for daily tasks are among the sleep problems examined here, according to Dr. Dot Porter. These problems signal possible underlying sleep disturbances and go beyond typical fatigue (e.g. G. more worrisome conditions that are connected to cognitive alterations, such as sleep apnea or chronic insomnia. “.”.
For younger individuals, particularly those in their middle years, sleep problems (e.g. 3. fragmented sleep patterns, excessive daytime sleepiness, and undiagnosed sleep apnea) may raise the chance of cognitive decline in the future. According to research, midlife sleep disorders like chronic insomnia or sleep apnea may be a factor in the neurodegenerative alterations that later cause dementia.
While a specific age was not specified in the study, research indicates that sleep disorders in individuals as young as their 40s or 50s may be risk factors or early indicators of cognitive decline in later life. “”.
“If a middle-aged sleep pattern exacerbates other health conditions like inflammation or cardiovascular disease, which are both associated with cognitive decline, it may raise the risk of dementia years later.
To lower their chance of developing sleep issues in the future, middle-aged people can take a number of actions. Important habits include regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress reduction, and proper sleep hygiene, which includes setting regular bedtimes, making a cozy sleeping space, and avoiding excessive screen time right before bed. Early treatment of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or chronic insomnia can also reduce long-term cognitive hazards. “”.