A study published in the journal Neurology, found that older women who have trouble falling asleep are more likely to experience memory loss and mental decline, than those who sleep well.
Researchers at the University of California studied almost 2,500 women over a period of 15 years. At the start of the study, the group had an average age of 69, with no signs of memory problems.
Cognitive tests were administered over the length of the study, and sleep disturbances were assessed at the end. Although there was no association between cognitive decline and total sleep time, those who showed memory problems were almost twice as likely to have trouble staying asleep.
Women who showed mental decline were also one-and-a-half times as likely to have problems falling asleep, being awake for more than 90 minutes during their sleep cycle.
Researchers speculate that a likely link between memory loss and sleep disturbances may include an underlying cause, such as the brain changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Proper sleep is vital to everyone and the ramifications of poor sleep can be far-reaching. My favorite remedy for sleep disturbances is the Emotional Freedom technique (EFT), which can also help with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. I recommend reviewing my “33 Secrets to a Good Night’s Sleep” if you’re suffering from any type of sleep problem. Whether you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night, there are many safe and natural solutions.
Avoid sleeping pills at all costs. Aside from their habit-forming capabilities, adverse side effects include daytime fatigue, risk of falling and memory problems.
The Hindu July 23, 2007
Neurology; 69(3):237-42 July 17, 2007