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Alzheimer’s and Sleep.

3 July 2023 Categories: Better Health Author: Katrina Stubbs

Alzheimer's and Sleep.

 

A lot of research is underway to explore the causes behind Alzheimer’s, and one of the leading factors researchers have identified is the impact of your sleep. Poor quality sleep patterns and sleep apnea are two significant contributing factors to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. It is believed that sleep disturbances can interfere with critical brainwashing processes, and then, in turn, beta-amyloid accumulation occurs. This harmful protein is linked to the development of Alzheimer’s in a significant amount of cases.

Coping with Alzheimer’s can be challenging for the individual and their loved ones. Several strategies can help deal with the changes accompanying the disease, such as staying actively engaged, participating in therapy and support groups, and seeking resources and information. 

Many people with Alzheimer’s have inadequate sleep. People with Alzheimer’s have tampered sleep schedules due to brain changes. Evidence shows that the changes people with Alzheimer’s receive during sleep typically happen in the later stages of the disease.

As we delve into this scenario that can happen for many individuals, we can reflect on Alzheimer’s and its connection to sleep, and we must learn to recognize the severity of the situation many individuals in our society go through. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the leading causes of dementia in the elderly, and its effects can be devastating to the individual and family and loved ones.

Research suggests a correlation between Alzheimer’s and sleep, with a lack of sleep leading to an increased risk of developing the disease. Studies show that individuals who consistently had disrupted sleep patterns exhibited significantly higher levels of beta-amyloid protein, which is linked to Alzheimer’s.

Other factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, can also increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and intellectual stimulation can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Focusing on proper sleep hygiene, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment, can promote a healthy brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

“The National Institute of Health” Put together a randomized controlled study. This study was to test the cognitive effects of treating obstructive sleep apnea in Alzheimer’s disease. After concluding the investigation, the results showed that “exploratory post-hoc examination of change scores for individual tests suggested improvements in episodic verbal learning and memory and some aspects of executive functioning such as cognitive flexibility and mental processing speed.” This is a game changer in each community. Even though there is no cure, we can find a way to help the effects Alzheimer’s has on us as we grow older.

In conclusion, Alzheimer’s is a severe and devastating condition affecting millions worldwide. While there is no cure for the disease, several preventative measures can be taken to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, as well as ways to cope with the disease. Through education, awareness, and proper care, we can create a better tomorrow for those affected by Alzheimer’s. Consider bringing in your loved one to get tested for obstructive sleep apnea, so we can proactively better their chances of avoiding or delaying this debilitating condition together!

 

 

Katrina Stubbs Sleep Clinician
Katrina Stubbs
Author

Katrina Stubbs is a Regional Manager and Sleep Clinician at Snore MD and brings over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She prides herself in providing exceptional patient care and education, not only to her patients but to the entire team at Snore MD.

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