Excessive Daytime Sleepiness In Elderly Might Be Linked To Pre-Dementia Syndrome

Researchers found that individuals with excessive daytime sleepiness and a lack of enthusiasm were more than three times as likely to develop motoric cognitive risk syndrome compared to those without these sleep-related issues. (Credit: Image by Pressfoto on Freepik)

Struggling to sleep or feeling overly sleepy during the day may be more than just a sign of fatigue; they could indicate serious health risks. A recent study revealed that elderly adults who have excessive daytime sleepiness are at risk of developing motoric cognitive risk syndrome that can lead to dementia.

Motoric cognitive risk syndrome can be considered a precursor of dementia marked by slow gait or memory issues, two characteristic features of dementia but not fully developed mobility disability or dementia. Individuals diagnosed with motoric cognitive risk syndrome might need to undergo a treatment plan that includes dietary changes, lifestyle interventions, and medications to slow cognitive decline.