Sleep-Related Changes Prior to Cognitive Dysfunction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the relationship between sleep and cognition and present available data reporting the impact that sleep alterations may have on cognitive functions.

RECENT FINDINGS: Research findings support the idea that sleep is involved in cognitive processes and that altered sleep homeostasis or circadian rhythms may lead to clinical and biochemical changes associated with cognitive impairment. Evidence is particularly solid for the association between specific sleep architecture and circadian alterations and Alzheimer's disease. Sleep changes, as early manifestations or possible risk factors for neurodegeneration and cognitive decline, may be appropriate targets for interventions aiming to reduce the likelihood of dementia.