Sleep well

How does sleep affect brain health?

Long periods of poor sleep - especially sleep disorders like sleep apnoea - can affect memory, thinking, and may increase dementia risk.

Watch this 2 minute 19 second video by Velvet’s Edge below or learn more about the link between sleep and dementia on the Alzheimer's Research UK website (opens in new tab) .

What can we do to reduce this risk?

Even small changes can make a big difference:

✔ Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night

✔ Keep a regular sleep routine

✔ Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol and nicotine in the evening

✔ Speak to your GP if you snore heavily or feel tired during the day. This could be a sign of a treatable condition called sleep apnoea

✔ Avoid using mobile phones, tablets of computers for an hour before bed. The blue light from screens can make it harder to fall asleep

What support is available in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire?

Fall Asleep Faster and Sleep Better

A free NHS guide packed with practical tips to help you improve your sleep. Learn how to develop healthy sleep habits, manage stress and create a bedtime routine that supports better rest. Good quality sleep is important for brain health, memory, concentration and overall wellbeing.

Find a pharmacy - NHS

The NHS 'Find a pharmacy' tool lets you locate open pharmacies in England by postcode or current location, with details of opening times, late night and out of hours services. You can also browse online only pharmacies and dispensing contractors.

Locate and register with a GP - NHS

Find out more about registering with a GP Surgery, enter your postcode to list local Medical Centres and register online.

Fall asleep faster and sleep better - Better Health every mind Matters - NHS

NHS Every Mind Matters' 'How to fall asleep faster and sleep better' page gives practical tips such as setting a regular routine, winding down, creating a good sleep environment, and improving sleep through diet and exercise, with a short video. You can also sign up for a six week email programme for step by step support.

The Sleep Charity

A leading, independent expert voice on sleep issues in the UK and we are here to help everyone get a better night’s sleep. Whether it’s advice, education or support for children, teenagers, adults, workplaces or professionals, we are on hand with expert knowledge, resources and accredited training.

Information for professionals

• Identify possible sleep concerns
• Refer to sleep clinics or mental health services if needed
• Promote good sleep habits in public health campaigns
• Glymphatic System Sleep Position: Optimising Brain Health Through Proper Rest (opens in new tab)
• Sleep and the risk of dementia | Alzheimer's Society (opens in new tab)