The relationship between sleep disturbances and dementia is an important dynamic, and rapidly evolving area of investigation, according to Dr. Arman Fesharaki-Zadeh, assistant professor of neurology at Yale School of Medicine. Sleep disturbances, particularly those involving slow-wave sleep (SWS), or deep sleep, can increase the risk of developing dementia. Alterations in sleep architecture, including reductions in SWS, may serve as early biomarkers of neurodegenerative disease. A sudden onset of insomnia should be evaluated for deeper meaning, with severe daytime impairment and frequent mood changes. If you're experiencing persistent or worsening sleep disturbances, especially when you have memory changes or difficulty managing daily activities, consult a neurologist.