Does Sleep Play a Role in the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Sleep disturbances are often identified as a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Now, research suggests that long-term sleep deprivation may actually contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s.
A Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis study found that a lack of sleep can contribute to the build up of amyloid plaques in the brain. These plaques lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, and may then disrupt sleep. The study measured sleep efficiency in 145 adults aged 45-75 and found that those who had less “sleep efficiency” were five times more likely to develop preclinical Alzheimer’s symptoms.
While researchers are still working to understand the full impact of this and other studies connecting sleep and Alzheimer’s disease, one takeaway is abundantly clear – sleep is important. What can you do to get the sleep you need? Try the following tips to get a good night’s sleep:
- Limit caffeine intake and try not to have any caffeine in the late afternoon or evening.
- Get some exercise. A session of afternoon exercise is ideal for a good night’s rest, but any regular exercise during the day is better than none.
- Develop a bedtime routine. Whether you drink warm chamomile tea before bed, read for fifteen minutes, take a warm bath, or meditate, find a pattern that works for you and stick to it to soothe yourself into a relaxed state.
- Make your bedroom a sanctuary. Try not to work or handle other stressful work in your room. When it is time to sleep, keep it dark, calm, and cool.
- Be consistent. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same times every day – even on weekends and holidays.
Brain health is important to us at Parc Provence. As a memory care provider, we support every effort to take care of your mind. Take steps to get the sleep you need, because every moment matters.
