Do you or your elderly loved ones struggle with excessive daytime sleepiness or a lack of enthusiasm for daily tasks? These symptoms may indicate more than just aging—they could be linked to a pre-dementia syndrome called motoric cognitive risk (MCR).
A study from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine reveals that MCR, characterized by memory lapses and slower walking speeds, could be an early indicator of dementia.
LINK BETWEEN SLEEPINESS AND DEMENTIA RISK
The study analyzed 445 dementia-free adults aged 65 and older, with an average age of 76. Participants were tracked for an average of three years, completing annual questionnaires about their memory, sleep, and daily activities.
Those who experienced excessive daytime sleepiness and sluggishness were over five times more likely to develop MCR than others. Specifically, 35.5% of participants with sleep-related issues developed MCR, compared to only 6.7% of those without these symptoms.
UNDERSTANDING MOTORIC COGNITIVE RISK SYNDROME
MCR is a pre-dementia syndrome combining two major symptoms:
- Occasional memory issues.
- Slower walking gait.
This condition often progresses to dementia, particularly vascular dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
Individuals with MCR are three times more likely to develop dementia compared to the general population. Early intervention could help mitigate these risks.
THE ROLE OF SLEEP DISTURBANCES IN DEMENTIA
Excessive daytime sleepiness can signal underlying issues that contribute to cognitive decline. These issues include poor sleep quality or undiagnosed sleep disorders.
Lead author Victoire Leroy emphasized, “Screening for sleep disturbances offers a potential opportunity to prevent cognitive decline later in life.”
While the study didn’t establish a direct cause-and-effect link, it highlighted a strong association between daytime sleepiness and MCR. Researchers are investigating how these sleep issues impact cognitive health.
PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION STRATEGIES
Healthcare providers should prioritize evaluating sleep patterns in older adults. Questionnaires, sleep studies, and activity monitoring could help identify at-risk individuals.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Boost Cognitive Health
- Exercise regularly to maintain physical and cognitive function.
- Prioritize sleep hygiene, including consistent sleep schedules and avoiding screens before bed.
- Follow a brain-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which supports vascular health.
Timely Medical Attention
Addressing excessive sleepiness early allows healthcare professionals to intervene before cognitive decline progresses.
FUTURE RESEARCH NEEDS
The study’s authors call for further research to explore the mechanisms connecting sleep disturbances, MCR, and cognitive decline.
“More studies are needed to determine how and why sleep disturbances contribute to MCR and dementia,” said Leroy.
Innovations in cognitive and sleep monitoring could make early diagnosis more accessible, improving outcomes for those at risk.