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[Sleep in older adults: association between chronic insomnia and cognitive functioning]
1Department of Psychology and The Center for Psychobiological Research, The Yezreel Valley College, Israel. i_haimov@yvc.ac.il
Harefuah
|July 28, 2009
Summary
Chronic insomnia in older adults is linked to poorer cognitive function, affecting memory and attention. Treating insomnia may help maintain cognitive abilities and improve elderly quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Sleep Medicine
Context:
- Chronic insomnia and cognitive impairment are prevalent in older adults.
- Limited and contradictory research exists on the link between insomnia and cognitive decline in the elderly.
Purpose:
- To investigate the association between chronic insomnia and cognitive functioning in older adults.
- To determine if insomnia contributes to cognitive impairment in the elderly population.
Summary:
- A study compared 64 non-insomniac older adults with 48 older adults suffering from insomnia.
- Cognitive capacity was assessed using the computerized MindFit test.
- Results indicated significantly reduced performance in memory span, attention, time estimation, working memory, and integration among insomniacs.
Impact:
- Late-life insomnia may be a contributing factor to age-related cognitive decline.
- Healthcare providers should screen for and treat insomnia in the elderly.
- Effective insomnia treatment could potentially improve cognitive function and overall quality of life in older adults.
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