Chronic insomnia increases dementia risk in older adults

Chronic insomnia in older adults is linked to a 40 percent increased risk of cognitive impairment, including dementia. The study found brain scans of insomniacs showed more white matter changes and amyloid buildup, markers that appear before memory problems. Researchers suggest a pathway from poor sleep to cognitive decline, though they caution this doesn't prove treating insomnia prevents impairment.