A new study published in Neurology reveals a strong link between chronic insomnia and accelerated cognitive decline. Researchers tracked over 2,500 participants for 5.6 years, finding that those with chronic insomnia had a 40% higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia, equivalent to 3.5 extra years of aging. Insomniacs also showed faster declines in thinking skills and more brain abnormalities. While not definitively proving causation, the study emphasizes the importance of addressing insomnia for brain health.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.