Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
The relationship between sleep and cognitive health has been the subject of study for decades, but recently, new findings have shed light on the crucial importance of adequate rest in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Neuropsychologist Matthew Walker from the University of Oxford has reaffirmed the need to sleep between seven and eight hours a day to maintain a healthy brain, especially starting from the age of 40. Previous research had already indicated that sleeping less than six hours significantly increases the risk of cognitive problems in adulthood. However, it is Walker's work that emphasizes how cognitive decline can be accelerated depending on the quality of sleep over the years. This decline is not only an age-related phenomenon but can be amplified by factors such as smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and stress. Studies have shown that sleep needs vary according to life stages. While young people may need more hours of restorative sleep, older adults often sleep less. An analysis conducted by the University of California highlights that from the age of 50, the quality of deep sleep drastically decreases, becoming almost nonexistent in individuals aged 70 due to deteriorated neural connections. Walker argues that during sleep, the brain carries out fundamental processes for its health, among which is the elimination of toxins. One of the most dangerous proteins is beta-amyloid, which has been directly linked to diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Thus, not getting enough sleep risks the accumulation of these toxins, which can result in irreversible cognitive decline. The consequences of not resting adequately are alarming. One study indicates that those who fail to achieve the minimum seven hours of sleep are 30% more likely to develop dementia in old age. This underscores the importance of prioritizing rest as a preventive strategy in the fight against cognitive decline. To improve sleep quality, experts recommend simple yet effective habits. An initial approach is to have a light dinner and avoid caffeine and electronic devices in the hours leading up to sleep. Additionally, regulating rest schedules can help synchronize the biological clock, facilitating more restorative sleep. The environment in which one sleeps also plays a crucial role. Creating a conducive sleeping environment involves controlling light, reducing noise, and favoring relaxing scents. However, if sleep continues to be elusive despite these efforts, it is advisable to seek the help of a specialist. One aspect that is often overlooked is the notion that oversleeping can also be harmful. While lack of sleep is dangerous, sleeping more than nine hours can inflame the brain, which could also contribute to cognitive decline and other mental health issues. Research on the relationship between sleep and brain health continues to evolve, but the evidence is becoming increasingly compelling. Getting enough quality sleep is being recognized not just as a luxury but as a true life insurance policy for the brain. Thus, establishing a proper sleep routine is not just a matter of personal well-being but an investment in our long-term health. It serves as a reminder that in the pursuit of a healthy life, sleep should not be underestimated.