New Study Explores Link Between Sleep Disorders and Cognitive Decline in Women

A new study by the Scripps Research Digital Trials Center examines the impact of sleep disturbances on neurocognitive outcomes in older women. Utilizing wearable tech, scientists aim to gather extensive sleep and cognitive data to design better interventions for cognitive decline.

Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, disproportionately affects women, with minority populations expected to see significant increases in cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sleep disturbances, long thought to be symptoms of dementia, are now being investigated as potential causes.

To better understand the relationship between sleep and cognitive health in women, the Scripps Research Digital Trials Center has launched a study called the Research Framework for Sleep Health - Neurocognitive Outcomes in Women (REFRESH-NOW). Led by Dr. Stuti Jaiswal, the study focuses on women aged 55 and older. Utilizing wrist-worn activity trackers and smartwatches, the study aims to collect sleep data over three years.

"Wearables can revolutionize sleep research," said Jaiswal. "While polysomnography is the gold standard, it requires lab visits and numerous sensors, which is not a natural sleep setting. Wearables collect data passively, allowing research to be conducted at home over long periods." The study also includes surveys and cognitive assessments to identify sleep-related risk factors for cognitive decline and aims to develop interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in women.

(With inputs from agencies.)