# Research on sleep disturbances and Alzheimer's risk > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/research-on-sleep-disturbances-and-alzheimers-risk > Updated: 2026-09-09T16:06:44.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Recent scientific research has investigated the relationship between sleep disturbances and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A study from the University of Kentucky suggests a potentially bidirectional link, where insomnia may increase the likelihood of Alzheimer’s-related processes, and the progression of the disease may further exacerbate sleep issues. Researchers noted that sleep is essential for the brain to consolidate memory and remove metabolic waste. Following this, research from the University of Liège identified a connection between frequent nighttime micro-awakenings and a higher genetic risk for Alzheimer’s, specifically in middle-aged individuals. This study noted that the correlation was not observed in younger adults, suggesting the relationship may evolve with age. Researchers cautioned that these findings do not prove causation and require further study to determine if sleep issues are a cause or an early symptom of neurodegeneration. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-09: University of Liège study links nighttime awakenings to Alzheimer's risk A University of Liège study found a link between nighttime micro-awakenings and increased genetic risk for Alzheimer's in middle-aged adults. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-lige-study-links-nighttime-awakenings-to-alzheimers-risk ### 2026-08-21: University of Kentucky study links insomnia to Alzheimer's risk University of Kentucky researchers found a potential bidirectional link between insomnia and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting sleep disturbances may increase vulnerability to cognitive decline. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-kentucky-study-links-insomnia-to-alzheimers-risk --- Cite as: Research on sleep disturbances and Alzheimer's risk. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/research-on-sleep-disturbances-and-alzheimers-risk