Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2025

Multi-Modal Home Sleep Monitoring in Older Adults
Published on: January 26, 2019
Sleep and Cognition: A Narrative Review Focused on Older Adults
Joseph M Dzierzewski1, Elliottnell Perez2, Scott G Ravyts2
1Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Room 306, Box 842018, Richmond, VA 23284-2018, USA.
Abstract:
Little is known regarding sleep's association with the traditional developmental course of late-life cognitive functioning. As the number of older adults increases worldwide, an enhanced understanding of age-related changes in sleep and cognition is necessary to slow decline and promote optimal aging. This review synthesizes the extant literature on sleep and cognitive function in healthy older adults, older adults with insomnia, and older adults with sleep apnea, incorporating information on the potential promising effects of treating poor sleep on cognitive outcomes in older adults. Unifying theories of the sleep-cognition association, possible mechanisms of action, and important unanswered questions are identified.
Related Concept Videos
Understanding Sleep
The circadian rhythm, a nearly 24-hour cycle, is deeply influenced by environmental light cues. Light exposure directly affects the hypothalamus, which in turn regulates...
Cognitive Development During Adulthood
Insufficient Sleep and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is a more severe form of sleep loss...
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...

