In a study published in Science Daily, having trouble falling asleep was associated with cognitive impairment. More frequent trouble falling asleep predicted poorer episodic memory, executive function, language, processing speed, and visuospatial performance.

Insomnia involves difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or regularly waking up earlier than desired, despite allowing enough time in bed. This study analyzed data from the health and Retirement Study which involved 2,496 adults who were at least 51 years of age in 2002. The participants’ cognition was assessed in 2016 for episodic memory, executive function, language, visuoconstruction, and processing speed.

These results suggest that regular screening for insomnia symptoms may help with tracking and identifying people with trouble falling asleep in mid-to-late life who might be at risk for developing cognitive impairments later in life. It may be too late for your residents however what about yourself or your loved ones? Trouble sleeping? Take the time to get checked out, it might be a game changer later in life! Stay well, stay informed and stay tuned!