AI Image
New Study Finds Troubling Link Between Unintentional Napping And Dementia
HuffPost • • health
Key Points:
- A Johns Hopkins study found that frequent, unintentional napping in adults aged 65 and older is associated with a higher risk of developing dementia, with daily nappers having a 48% increased risk compared to those who rarely nap.
- The study does not establish causation, and researchers suggest that frequent napping may be a marker of underlying brain changes rather than a cause of dementia.
- Intentional, longer naps are not linked to increased dementia risk, and experts recommend naps around 45 minutes to complete a full sleep cycle, emphasizing that occasional naps after poor nighttime sleep can be beneficial.
- Unintentional daytime dozing is not a normal part of aging and may indicate underlying health issues like sleep apnea; individuals experiencing this should consult a doctor.
- Advances in dementia research and treatments are ongoing, and early diagnosis can help manage the condition effectively, reducing stigma and improving care planning.
