Story perspectives

Chronic Insomnia Linked to Faster Brain Aging, Dementia Risk

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

A study in *Neurology* indicates chronic insomnia may speed up brain aging and elevate dementia risk.
Those with chronic insomnia face a 40% higher chance of mild cognitive impairment or dementia, equating to an extra 3.5 years of brain aging.
The research followed 2,750 cognitively healthy seniors (average age 70) for 5.6 years.
14% of insomniacs developed cognitive issues, compared to 10% of non-insomniacs.
Insomnia may impact brain health through amyloid plaques and white matter hyperintensities, highlighting the need for effective treatment.

1 of 1

Story summary

A study in *Neurology* indicates chronic insomnia may speed up brain aging and elevate dementia risk.
Those with chronic insomnia face a 40% higher chance of mild cognitive impairment or dementia, equating to an extra 3.5 years of brain aging.
The research followed 2,750 cognitively healthy seniors (average age 70) for 5.6 years.
14% of insomniacs developed cognitive issues, compared to 10% of non-insomniacs.
Insomnia may impact brain health through amyloid plaques and white matter hyperintensities, highlighting the need for effective treatment.