Here’s a summary of the provided text, focusing on the key findings and information:
Main Point: A study suggests a link between weaker circadian rhythms and an increased risk of developing dementia.
Key Findings:
* Weaker Rhythms, Higher Risk: People with weaker circadian rhythms (less distinct differences between active and rest periods) were more likely to develop dementia over a three-year follow-up period. Specifically, 31 out of 728 people with high-level circadian rhythms developed dementia, compared to 106 out of 727 people with low-level rhythms.
* Activity Timing Matters: People whose activity levels peaked later in the day also showed an increased risk.
* Circadian Rhythm Disruption & Neurodegenerative Disease: Experts suggest that disruptions to circadian rhythms may be a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases like dementia.
* Age & External Factors: Circadian rhythms naturally weaken with age and are susceptible to disruption from things like light and schedule changes.
Study Details:
* participants: 2,183 people with an average age of 79 years, none of whom had dementia at the start of the study.
* Methodology: Participants wore heart monitors for an average of 12 days to track rest and activity. Researchers measured the relative amplitude of circadian rhythms (the difference between most and least active periods) to assess rhythm strength.
* Follow-up: Participants were followed for an average of three years, during which 176 were diagnosed with dementia.
The text highlights the importance of maintaining a strong and regular circadian rhythm, especially as people age, and suggests it might very well be a factor in preventing or delaying the onset of dementia.