Dementia is commonly associated with memory loss, but there are other, often overlooked signs that could signal the onset of the condition.
One key indicator can be observed in how you feel when you wake up in the morning.
Understanding these subtle symptoms is crucial, especially as dementia cases are on the rise.
In the UK alone, the number of people living with dementia is expected to increase from around one million in 2024 to 1.4 million by 2040.
This increase is driven by factors like longer life expectancies and greater awareness of the condition. While no cure currently exists for dementia, early detection can significantly enhance the quality of life and allow individuals to plan for the future.
What to Look For in the Morning
A study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry explored the link between dementia and morning agitation.
Researchers examined data from three nursing homes, analyzing the behaviour of 110 patients aged 60 and older, all of whom had been pre-diagnosed with dementia or agitation.
These patients were divided into three groups based on their peak periods of agitation: morning, evening, or none.
The findings revealed that agitation was slightly more common in the morning among dementia patients, suggesting a possible connection between morning irritability and the condition.
Morning agitation could be one of the early signs that dementia is affecting a person’s daily rhythm.
In addition, the Mayo Clinic notes that disruptions in the body’s sleep-wake cycle can also be an indicator of dementia.
Many individuals with dementia experience excessive daytime sleepiness and struggle to get quality sleep at night, leading to early morning wakefulness.
Interestingly, research from Alzheimer’s Research UK found that early risers might be at a slightly higher genetic risk for brain decline.
However, it’s important to emphasize that most people are not genetically predisposed to dementia, and there are steps that can be taken to reduce overall risk.
Reducing the Risk of Dementia
While certain risk factors such as genetics are out of our control, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower the chances of developing dementia.
One of the most effective ways to protect brain health is through diet.
Studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet may help maintain brain function and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. This diet emphasizes:
- Vegetables, fruits, and herbs
- Whole grains
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fish and seafood
- Nuts and seeds
- Legumes or beans
- Moderate amounts of dairy, poultry, and eggs
A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet had thicker cortical brain regions, a crucial finding since these regions typically shrink in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Regular exercise is another key factor in reducing dementia risk. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, staying physically active can cut the risk of dementia by up to 20 percent.
The important thing is to find an activity that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s walking, swimming, or joining a fitness class.
Staying mentally active is just as important. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as reading, learning a foreign language, playing a musical instrument, or volunteering, can help keep the mind sharp and reduce the likelihood of dementia, according to the NHS.
Early Detection is Key
Spotting the early signs of dementia—such as morning agitation or disrupted sleep patterns—can make a world of difference.
While dementia remains incurable, understanding and addressing these symptoms early can slow its progression and allow for better management of the condition.
Through lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and staying mentally active, individuals can significantly reduce their risk and improve their long-term health outcomes.