Daytime sign you're more likely to develop dementia is being missed in elderly

Scientists have found an overlooked symptom that may indicate dementia in the elderly, amid concerns that dementia has been Britain's top cause of death for a decade. In 2022, the number of deaths attributed to dementia and Alzheimer's disease was 65,967— an increase of 5,000 from 2021.

By 2040, these figures are projected to quadruple. Now, recent research indicates that older individuals who feel excessively tired during the day might be at a higher risk of developing dementia. Dr Victoire Leroy of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine remarked: "Our findings emphasise the need for screening for sleep issues. There's potential that people could get help with their sleep issues and prevent cognitive decline later in life."

Daytime sleepiness is associated with motoric cognitive risk (MCR) syndrome, which is characterised by slow walking and difficulty with memory. Notably, those with MCR syndrome may not necessarily have mobility impairments or an official dementia diagnosis.

Although MCR syndrome has only recently been acknowledged by medical professionals, it is now considered to significantly elevate the risk of dementia. The pivotal study examined 445 seniors over 65, free from dementia and residing in community homes, reports the Express.

By assessing their sleep patterns and memory concerns through questioning, researchers diagnosed 36 participants with MCR syndrome. In particular, 39% of the group categorised as "poor sleepers" had a higher risk of developing MCR syndrome than the "good sleepers". Those who experienced excessive daytime sleepiness and struggled to feel enthusiastic due to sleepiness were also three times more likely to develop MCR than those without sleep-related problems.

Participants were also more likely to develop the syndrome if they had poorer sleep quality, slept for shorter periods, and were frequently sleepy during the day. Dr Leroy stated: "More research needs to be done to examine the relationship between sleep issues and cognitive decline and the role played by motoric cognitive risk syndrome."

"We also need studies to explain the mechanisms that link these sleep disturbances to motoric cognitive risk syndrome and cognitive decline."

The study did not find a direct cause-and-effect relationship between poor sleep and MCR and then dementia, but rather it discovered an association of risk.