Cognitive Therapy May Slow Aging in Seniors with Insomnia
A UCLA study suggests cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia could slow biological aging in older adults, offering potential health benefits.
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Originally reported by UCLA Health. Senior Wellness summarises the reporting; we do not publish the original article.
A recent study from UCLA Health indicates that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia might help reduce biological aging in older adults. According to the report, older individuals who participated in CBT experienced more significant improvements in insomnia symptoms and a slower pace of biological aging compared to those who only received sleep education.
The study, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, involved nearly 100 older adults with insomnia. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving CBT and the other receiving sleep education. Biological aging was assessed using blood samples and epigenetic clocks, which measure age-related changes in DNA.
Results showed that those who underwent CBT had a nearly three-fold greater chance of overcoming insomnia. Moreover, their biological aging slowed, as measured by the DunedinPACE epigenetic clock. The researchers suggest that treating insomnia could be an important factor in healthy aging, comparable to diet and exercise.
However, the study had limitations, including a sample from a single location and a lack of diversity among participants. Further research with a broader demographic is needed to confirm these findings. Seniors dealing with insomnia might consider discussing cognitive behavioral therapy with their healthcare provider as a potential option.
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