According to a journal article published on nature.com, adults in their 50s and 60s who routinely sleep less than 6 hours per night are at a higher risk of developing dementia compared with people who sleep for 7 hours per night. In the study, the sleep habits of 7,959 participants were studied. These participants were recruited in the years 1985-1988 (10,308 were recruited; 7,959 had data on sleep).
Chronic, short sleep duration at ages 50, 60, and 70 was associated with a 30% increased risk of dementia. Overall, the study did not find any evidence to support a longer duration of sleep as a contributing factor to dementia. Researchers did mention that there were very few long sleepers in their sample, so more research needs to be done to make any further statements.
If you find yourself reading this and wondering how to get a better night’s sleep, there are some tips that you can follow. 1. Develop a sleeping schedule and stick to it–even on the weekends. 2. Make sure your bedroom is set up for sleep and rest. In this current work from home era, the bedroom and home may feel more like work. Learn to separate your spaces. 3. Make sure to wind down before bed. Turn off the electronics.
If you’ve tried all of the above and still find that your sleep is disrupted or you are waking up feeling unrested, seek help from a medical professional.