Dementia in adult women with Down syndrome is associated with insomnia symptoms
What is it about?
Our study shows that adults with Down syndrome experience symptoms of multiple sleep disorders, and that the presence of dementia is specifically associated with having more insomnia symptoms. However, this effect is only seen in adult women with Down syndrome. Insomnia symptoms, regardless of sex and the presence of dementia, are also associated with an impaired ability to successfully carry out daily activities, especially if they are related to social function.
Why is it important?
These findings highlight the potential importance of insomnia symptoms in adults with Down syndrome, as either an early indicator of individuals with Down syndrome at risk for dementia or a potential treatment target to minimize decline in function associated with dementia in Down syndrome.