This document discusses a study that found a link between oversleeping (defined as sleeping for long periods coupled with chronic insomnia symptoms) and reductions in executive function, memory, and processing speed. The study suggests that oversleeping poses health risks and may be tied to underlying conditions like depression, mood disorders, hypothyroidism, endocrine disorders, or sleep apnea. One recommendation is to aim for 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep per night.

1. OVERSLEEPING
(OFTEN TIED TO
UNDERLYING
CONDITIONS)
POSES A RISK
U Z I B E N - A M I , P H . D.

2. INTRODUCTION
• Uzi Ben-Ami, Ph.D., is a Rockville, Maryland, psychologist who provides
cognitive-behavioral therapy to clients with issues such as anxiety and
bipolar disorders. Uzi Ben-Ami, Ph.D., maintains a strong interest in current
research in his areas of professional focus, which include sleep issues.
Although well-known sleep disorders have centered on getting too little
sleep, a recent study undertaken by University of Miami researchers points
to too much sleep as a health risk as well.
Published in the Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, the study evaluated
approximately 5,200 Hispanic people between ages 45 and 75. A link was
found between those who slept for long periods of time, coupled with
chronic insomnia symptoms, and significant reductions in executive
function, memory, and processing speed.

3. OVERSLEEPING
• This trio of symptoms is linked to the development of both
Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment.
One likely reason for this correlation is that chronic health
conditions, such as depression and other mood disorders,
contribute to oversleeping. Other common underlying issues
include hypothyroidism and endocrine disorders. In addition,
obstructive sleep apnea can be a factor in decreasing quality of
sleep, which leads to increased tiredness and a tendency to
oversleep.
One study recommendation is to aim for a healthy range of sleep,
from 7-9 hours each night, with a focus not simply on quantity, but
also on the quality of sleep.