Night owls might want to reconsider their late-night habits. New research suggests that staying up late could increase the risk of dementia, especially for older women.
A study from the University of California, San Francisco looked at over 700 women in their 80s. The researchers tracked their sleep patterns and cognitive health for five years. What they found was eye-opening: women who became increasingly sleepy during the day were twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those with stable sleep patterns[1][3].
But why does being a night owl seem to affect brain health? There are a few possible explanations. Poor sleep quality and irregular sleep schedules can disrupt the brain’s ability to clear out toxins and consolidate memories. Staying up late may also lead to lifestyle habits that aren’t great for brain health, like less exercise, poor diet choices, or increased alcohol use[9].
It’s not just about total hours of sleep, but also about when you sleep. Our bodies have natural circadian rhythms, and going against those by staying up late might throw off important biological processes. Night owls tend to experience more “social jet lag” where their sleep schedule doesn’t match up with societal norms, potentially causing chronic stress[9].
The good news is that sleep patterns can be changed. Experts recommend establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding screens before bed. Getting regular exercise and exposure to natural light during the day can also help regulate your body’s internal clock[3].
For older adults, paying attention to changing sleep needs is crucial. If you find yourself becoming excessively sleepy during the day or having trouble sleeping at night, it’s worth discussing with your doctor. These changes could be early warning signs of cognitive decline[3].
While more research is needed, this study adds to growing evidence that healthy sleep habits are vital for brain health as we age. So next time you’re tempted to stay up for that late-night show, remember that your future self might thank you for hitting the hay a bit earlier.
