Nightmares and bad dreams are common occurrences, with many adults experiencing them monthly. However, a growing body of evidence points to links between nightmares and cognitive function. A recent study found that people who have frequent nightmares have a fourfold greater risk for cognitive decline and dementia.

The study involved 605 adults enrolled in MIDUS, an ongoing survey of middle-aged and older adults living in the United States. Participants provided information about their sleep quality and distressing dream frequency over about seven years. They also completed cognitive tests and reported whether they had been diagnosed with dementia.

Middle-aged participants who had weekly distressing dreams were four times more likely to experience cognitive decline during the seven years than those without bad dreams. Older adults with weekly bad dreams were more than twice as likely to experience cognitive decline. The connection between bad dreams and cognitive decline was more robust among men.

These findings suggest that distressing dreams predict cognitive decline risk, potentially aiding early diagnosis and treatment. Dreams play essential roles in creativity and inspiration. Learn more in this clip featuring Dr. Matthew Walker.