Insomnia and the brain: why a few bad nights can accelerate aging.

We often think of insomnia as a minor inconvenience: if you didn’t sleep well, you can catch up tomorrow. However, new research has shown that if difficulties falling asleep or waking up occur at least three times a week for several months, it qualifies as chronic . This condition can accelerate age-related changes in the brain, including the development of .

Sleep and Memory: A Delicate Connection

Researchers from the American Academy of Neurology observed over 2,700 individuals with an average age of 70 for five years. Among those suffering from insomnia, the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia was 40% higher than in those who slept normally, reports Daily Mail.
This is equivalent to approximately three and a half years of additional brain aging. Furthermore, individuals with chronic insomnia were more likely to accumulate amyloid plaques—protein deposits associated with .
What Happens to the Brain Without Sleep:

• Cognitive Decline. Tests indicated a faster deterioration in memory and cognitive skills.
• Vascular Changes. Scans revealed damage to the small blood vessels in the brain responsible for its nourishment.
• Genetic Factors. Individuals with the APOE ε4 gene (known as the “Alzheimer’s risk gene”) were even more vulnerable to the effects of insomnia.

Why This Matters Now

In the United Kingdom, over 900,000 people are living with dementia, and this number is projected to reach 1.7 million in two decades. Similar trends are observed in the U.S. and other countries. While there is currently no cure for the disease, early detection may provide a chance to slow its progression.

Protecting Sleep Means Protecting the Brain

Experts emphasize that quality sleep is not just rest; it’s a safeguard for the brain. If insomnia persists for weeks and interferes with daily life, it’s important to consult a doctor. Every sleepless night is a small step away from keeping our memory and clarity of thought for as long as possible.