Sleep apnea
Untreated obstructive sleep apnea increases dementia risk by about 26% through oxygen deprivation and sleep fragmentation.
One analysis that pools the results of many studies, so no single odd result can carry the conclusion.
Why it matters
Each apnea episode briefly starves the brain of oxygen. CPAP treatment restores normal sleep architecture and oxygen levels.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask whether a sleep study is warranted given the snoring and daytime sleepiness
Screening: STOP-BANG questionnaire or home sleep study
Sources
Association of Sleep-Disordered Breathing With Cognitive Function and Risk of Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Leng Y, McEvoy CT, Allen IE et al.. JAMA Neurology, 2017.
People with untreated sleep apnea had about a quarter higher risk of memory problems later.
Association of sleep duration in middle and old age with incidence of dementia
Sabia S, Fayosse A, Dumurgier J et al.. Nature Communications, 2021.
People who slept 6 hours or less in their 50s and 60s had about a third more dementia risk.
Routines for this factor
Lights out and phone out of the bedroom by 10:30
Put the phone on a charger outside the bedroom and turn off the lights by 10:30.
5 min, difficulty 2/3
No caffeine after two o'clock
After 2pm, switch to decaf, water or herbal tea.
1 min, difficulty 1/3
This is research information, not medical advice. Nothing here replaces your parent's doctor.