If you’ve been brushing off sleepless nights as just part of life, it may be time to take them more seriously. New research suggests that treating insomnia doesn’t just help with next-day fatigue — it could also lower your risk of dementia and cognitive decline later in life.
What the study found
A new study published in Neurology followed 2,750 people over five years. Participants underwent brain scans, neurological exams, and sleep evaluations. The findings? Those with chronic insomnia had a 40% higher risk of developing cognitive problems.
The good news: people who managed their sleep — whether by increasing sleep time or using medication — did not face the same heightened risk.
“Chronic insomnia may be a modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline,” said Dr. Diego Carvalho, lead author of the study and sleep specialist at the Mayo Clinic.
Why sleep matters so much for the brain
Experts say sleep is more than just rest — it’s maintenance time for your brain. While you sleep, your brain clears out waste and proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Sleep also strengthens memory, regulates emotions, and supports overall brain recovery.
When sleep is poor, it can increase inflammation and disrupt brain connections, raising the risk of long-term damage.
Why insomnia often goes untreated
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, yet it’s often overlooked. About 12% of Americans have chronic insomnia, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Older adults are especially affected, but many assume poor sleep is just part of aging — which isn’t true.
Symptoms like difficulty falling asleep, waking often, daytime fatigue, mood changes, and brain fog are not “normal aging” and shouldn’t be ignored.
How to improve your sleep
The best treatment for chronic insomnia is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI). Unlike traditional talk therapy, CBTI gives you tools to reset your sleep habits and break the cycle of insomnia.
Doctors also recommend:
- Keeping a consistent sleep schedule
- Practicing relaxation before bed
- Creating a dark, cool, quiet bedroom environment
- Limiting screens, caffeine, and alcohol before sleep
- Getting regular exercise
If lifestyle changes don’t work, consult a sleep specialist. Medication may help in some cases, but experts stress that it should be combined with healthy sleep behaviors.
The bottom line
Insomnia is more than an annoyance — it could be a warning sign for future brain health problems. Addressing it now not only improves your daily life but may also protect your memory and cognitive abilities as you age.
#SleepHealth #BrainHealth #InsomniaHelp #HealthyAging #CognitiveWellness