Individuals who regularly stay up late and go to bed late are more likely to experience faster cognitive decline than early risers, according to a new study from the University Medical Center Groningen. The research, conducted by Ana Wenzler, aimed to prevent dementia as the population ages.
Wenzler found that biological predispositions play a role in cognitive decline, but behavior changes can reduce risks. After age 40, brain naturally deteriorates. Researchers analyzed sleep patterns and tracked changes in cognitive function over 10-year period. The results showed night owls experienced sharper decline in cognitive abilities.
Night owls tend to engage in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, drinking, poor diet, and lack of exercise. About 25% of cognitive decline can be attributed to these factors. Highly educated individuals were more affected due to job constraints that force early waking despite a late chronotype.
Wenzler advises avoiding working against body’s natural clock whenever possible. Going to bed earlier won’t help if melatonin production isn’t ready. She suggests jobs with flexibility for evening types and later start times could benefit night owls, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy behaviors and improving cognitive function.
The UMCG team is now investigating whether night owls face a higher risk of developing dementia later in life. Their research aims to offer practical advice to help people reduce their dementia risk.
Source: https://www.arabtimesonline.com/news/night-owls-face-greater-risk-of-cognitive-decline-than-early-risers