Fact 14: MCI and the Role of Sleep: An Unfolding Story
Sleep plays an increasingly recognized role in MCI. Emerging research suggests that poor sleep quality and sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea can increase the risk of cognitive decline and MCI. This connection provides new insights into the intricate relationships between sleep, brain health, and cognitive function.
Poor sleep quality and sleep disorders can affect the brain in multiple ways. For instance, they can interfere with the brain’s “clean-up” processes during sleep, leading to the accumulation of proteins like beta-amyloid, which are associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Sleep disturbances can also exacerbate other risk factors for MCI, such as cardiovascular disease.
On the other hand, MCI can affect sleep. Changes in brain function and structure associated with MCI can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep disturbances. This two-way interaction between sleep and MCI illustrates the complex relationship between sleep and cognitive health.
While the research on sleep and MCI is still evolving, it points to the importance of good sleep hygiene for cognitive health. Strategies like maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a sleep-friendly environment, and addressing sleep disorders could play a role in maintaining cognitive health and potentially slowing the progression of MCI. (14)
