Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed an AI tool that analyzes brain wave activity during sleep using EEG recordings to predict future cognitive impairment. The study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, tracked women over 65 for five years, identifying subtle changes in brain wave patterns—particularly in deep sleep gamma frequencies—that preceded cognitive decline. The AI model successfully identified 85% of those who later developed impairment with an overall accuracy of 77%. These findings suggest that wearable EEG devices could become a powerful early detection tool, allowing for timely interventions to slow or prevent dementia. Researchers are now exploring whether manipulating brain activity during sleep could further reduce cognitive decline risk.
Also of note, the study suggests that wearable EEG devices could help identify individuals at risk for dementia, paving the way for earlier interventions. Maybe someday your Apple Watch will be able to detect the signs of future cognitive impairment.