Is Excessive Daytime Napping Linked to Alzheimer’s or Dementia? Here’s What the Research Really Says

Many people enjoy an afternoon nap—and in moderation, naps can be refreshing and even healthy. But what about excessive daytime sleepiness or long daily naps? Recent research suggests that unusually long or frequent naps may be connected to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

The relationship isn’t simple, but it is important. Here's what science is revealing.

Napping and Brain Health: A Two-Way Connection

For years, researchers wondered whether too much napping might cause cognitive decline. Today, evidence suggests a more complex, two-way relationship:

• Excessive napping may be a warning sign of early brain changes.

• Poor nighttime sleep may lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, which over time may increase dementia riskthrough inflammation, poor glymphatic (brain-cleaning) function, and sleep fragmentation.
  

In other words, naps aren’t the enemy—they may be a clue that something deeper is going on.

What the Major Studies Have Found

1. Longer daily naps linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s

A large 2022 study from the University of California, San Francisco tracked older adults for 14 years. They found:

• People who napped more than 1 hour per day had a 40% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Rapid increases in nap duration from one year to the next were strong predictors of cognitive decline.
  

The surprising part? These changes in napping patterns appeared years before memory loss began.

2. Damage to brain regions that regulate wakefulness

Alzheimer’s disease affects not only memory centers but also the regions of the brain responsible for maintaining wakefulness.

This includes structures like:

• the locus coeruleus

• hypothalamic nuclei

• parts of the brainstem
  

As these areas degenerate, people naturally become more fatigued and more likely to fall asleep during the day.

So excessive napping may not be “just a habit”—it can be a biological symptom of early Alzheimer’s.

3. Sleep disorders also play a major role

Sleep problems are strongly linked with cognitive decline.Conditions such as:

• obstructive sleep apnea

• insomnia

• restless leg syndrome

• circadian rhythm disorders
  

…create fragmented nighttime sleep. That often leads to increased daytime napping and, over time, may worsen amyloid and tau accumulation in the brain.

This creates a vicious cycle:Poor sleep → more napping → worse nighttime sleep → cognitive decline.

How Much Napping Is Too Much?

Research suggests that napping becomes concerning when it is:

• More than 1 hour per day, or

• Happening multiple times per day, or

• Increasing over time without explanation.
  

Short naps (10–30 minutes)—especially planned “power naps”—are not associated with dementia risk and may even improve mental sharpness.

Could Excessive Napping Be an Early Warning Sign?

Yes. A sudden increase in daytime sleepiness or unintentional napping can be a red flag.

Other symptoms to watch for:

• Memory lapses

• Trouble concentrating or multitasking

• Increased irritability

• Withdrawal from activities

• Confusion about time or routine
  

These changes don’t automatically mean someone has dementia, but they do warrant a medical evaluation.

What to Do If You Notice Excessive Napping

Here are practical steps to take:

1. Get a sleep evaluation

A sleep study can identify sleep apnea or other disorders that increase dementia risk but are treatable.

2. Review medications

Sedatives, antihistamines, opioid pain medications, and some antidepressants can contribute to daytime drowsiness.

3. Focus on sleep hygiene

• Regular bedtime

• Avoid late caffeine

• Limit evening screen time

• Morning light exposure to regulate circadian rhythm
  

4. Talk with a healthcare provider

A cognitive screening or neurological assessment can help rule out early cognitive decline.

The Bottom Line

Napping itself isn’t harmful—in fact, a short nap can boost alertness and improve mood.But excessive, long, or increasing naps may signal underlying issues such as sleep disorders, medication effects, or even early neurodegeneration.

The key is to pay attention to changes. If you or a loved one is suddenly napping more than usual, it’s worth discussing with a clinician. Early detection and treatment of sleep or cognitive issues can make a meaningful difference.

How Our Practice Can Help

At Woodside Internal Medicine, we help patients in Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, and the Greater Indianapolis area understand and address the root causes of excessive daytime napping and fatigue. Our concierge-style care focuses on early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment.

✔ Comprehensive Sleep & Cognitive Screening

We evaluate sleep quality, fatigue, memory changes, and cognitive function to identify issues early.

✔ Targeted Evaluation for Dementia Risk

We assess risk factors such as sleep disorders, metabolic health, medications, and lifestyle patterns linked to Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

✔ Personalized Care Plans

We create individualized plans to improve sleep, boost daytime energy, and support long-term brain health.

✔ Concierge-Level Access & Support

With longer visits, direct communication, and proactive follow-up, we provide ongoing support for optimal wellness.

Woodside Internal Medicine is dedicated to helping you stay healthy, alert, and active—today and for years to come. Contact us for more information.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition or before making changes to your sleep or healthcare routine.