Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder linked to Parkinson’s disease, dementia, heart disease, and diabetes. Among older adults, the prevalence of sleep apnea is striking. One early study found that 70% of men and 56% of women between the ages of 65 and 99 had sleep apnea.
Despite how common it is, sleep apnea remains significantly underdiagnosed. As we age, muscle tone in the throat and airway naturally declines, increasing the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep. Weight gain also becomes more common with age, and chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease further increase the risk. In addition, many older adults may not complain about fatigue or daytime sleepiness because they assume these symptoms are simply a normal part of aging.
So, what exactly is obstructive sleep apnea?
OSA occurs when the throat repeatedly collapses during sleep, blocking the airway and interrupting breathing. Each time this happens, the brain senses a lack of oxygen and briefly awakens the body to reopen the airway. These repeated interruptions prevent restorative sleep, leaving a person exhausted even after spending hours in bed.
Common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Excessive daytime fatigue or falling asleep during the day
If you live alone, you may not realize you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep. However, if you experience any of the symptoms above, have restless sleep, toss and turn frequently, or make repeated trips to the bathroom during the night, you should consider being evaluated for sleep apnea.
Over time, untreated OSA places repeated stress on the body due to ongoing drops in oxygen levels during sleep. This chronic strain significantly increases the risk of serious health conditions.
Cardiovascular Risks
Long-term oxygen deprivation can increase the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure
- Heart attack
- Stroke
Brain and Neurological Risks
Studies have shown that people with untreated sleep apnea have a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Untreated OSA has also been associated with:
- Memory impairment
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Cognitive decline and dementia
Metabolic Risks
Sleep apnea is closely linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, both of which are also associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and Parkinson’s-related dementia.
The good news is that treatment can significantly reduce these risks.
The most common treatment for OSA is CPAP therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). CPAP uses a mask worn over the nose and/or mouth during sleep to deliver a steady stream of pressurized air. This airflow acts like a gentle “pneumatic splint,” keeping the airway open and preventing collapse.
Fortunately, testing for sleep apnea is now much easier than it was in the past. Initial screening can often be done at home using a small monitoring device, such as a ring worn during sleep for two nights. If sleep apnea is detected, a more comprehensive sleep study may follow to monitor breathing, oxygen levels, snoring, sleep stages, heart rhythm, and leg movements. During this study, specialists can also determine whether CPAP or BiPAP therapy is needed and identify the appropriate air pressure settings.
Adults — and even children between the ages of 2 and 8 who show signs of sleep apnea — should be evaluated and treated when necessary. Without treatment, the long-term risks associated with sleep apnea are simply too serious to ignore.
Our Aging Life Care Advisors™ can help support individuals living with sleep apnea by developing comprehensive care plans, advocating for testing and treatment, and providing resources that help older adults achieve more restful, restorative sleep.
To learn more about how we can help, call Springpoint at Home today at 609-366-1900.
