Sauna and Dementia: What's the Connection?

Dementia has become a public health issue, with someone developing this condition every three seconds. According to Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI), an estimated 55 million people globally were living with dementia in 2020. This figure is expected to reach 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050. 

Considering this alarming increase, it has become more crucial than ever to explore ways to combat or at least slow down the progression of this disease by just a few years. As such, sauna therapy has been gaining popularity as a potential treatment for managing dementia symptoms. 

However, is there any scientific evidence linking sauna use to a reduced risk of dementia, and if so, how does sauna therapy work? Keep reading to find out the connection between sauna and dementia. We'll also share different tips to incorporate this passive treatment into your life or that of a loved one!

What Exactly Is Dementia?

The Alzheimer's Association explains that dementia isn't a single disease; rather, it's a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia is marked by a deterioration of the nerve cells in the brain. When these brain cells are damaged, they impede cognitive functioning, ultimately affecting memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities.

Dementia primarily affects the elderly, but it's not a normal part of aging. Some diseases, such as hypertension, high blood sugar, high cholesterol levels, stroke, and even brain injury, can lead to dementia.

Types of Dementia

Some of the most common types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer's Disease: The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, accounts for an estimated 60–80% of cases. It is marked by the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain.

• Vascular Dementia: This form is often the result of microscopic bleeding and blood vessel blockage in the brain, commonly after a stroke.

• Lewy Body Dementia: This type is characterized by abnormal aggregates of protein that develop inside nerve cells, affecting movement. It may also change the alertness level, leading to daytime sleepiness and staring spells. 

• Frontotemporal Dementia: This variety affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, profoundly influencing personality, behavior, and speech.

• Mixed Dementia: A condition in which individuals show changes related to more than one type of dementia simultaneously.

Symptoms of Dementia

Dementia symptoms may vary greatly, but the following are some of the most common signs:

• Memory Loss: Especially issues with short-term memory, such as forgetting appointments, names, or recent events.

• Communication Problems: Difficulties with vocabulary, including finding the right words or following conversations.

• Reasoning and Judgment: Challenges in dealing with complex tasks, poor judgment, or difficulty with planning.

• Visual Perception Issues: Problems with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving.

• Mood and Behavioral Changes: Experiencing shifts in mood and personality, including depression, anxiety, or increased irritability.

While there is presently no cure for most types of dementia, medication, lifestyle adjustments, and cognitive stimulation therapy can help manage its symptoms. Alternatively, you can include sauna therapy in your wellness regimen to potentially enhance brain health and general well-being.

Exploring Saunas

Saunas have been used for centuries in many cultures for relaxation, social connection, and health purposes. At My Sauna World, you'll find the following types of saunas, each bringing unique sauna benefits to the table:

Traditional Saunas

Traditional Finnish saunas are the epitome of the sauna experience. Constructed with sturdy materials like cedar or hemlock timber, they're equipped with an electric or wood-burning stove topped with rocks. When heated, the stove raises the room's temperature to a sweltering 150 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit. 

While these saunas have a 5% to 10% humidity level, you can momentarily increase it by throwing water over the heated rocks. Traditional saunas are famous for their dry heat, which has been known to improve liver health, boost immune response, reduce the risk of heart attack,  and even help with conditions such as anxiety.

Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas such as Golden Designs La Sagrada boast infrared lamps that emit low-EMF electromagnetic waves to heat your body directly. These saunas offer unique penetrating heat sensations at a lower temperature range of 110 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

Since these saunas have a direct heating mechanism, they can feel quite intense to some. Still, they are actually more bearable for those who might find traditional sauna temperatures too high or have respiratory concerns such as sinus infection and asthma.

Infrared saunas are especially noted for their ability to speed muscle recovery, relive back pain and arthritis,  and improve skin conditions such as eczema and acne, thanks to their gentle yet effective heat. Infrared saunas also contribute to better sleep patterns and help with detoxification, particularly after indulging in alcohol.

Does Sauna Work for Dementia?

Yes, sauna use may have beneficial effects for individuals concerned about dementia. A 2017 study published in Age and Aging explains the connection between sauna and dementia. The study states that Finnish men who participated in sauna sessions four to seven times per week had a significantly lower risk (66% less for dementia and 65% less for Alzheimer's disease) than those who only had one session per week. Sauna therapy helps improve blood circulation and deliver essential nutrients to the injured tissues, ultimately improving brain health. 

Research further indicated that sauna therapy stimulates the production of heat shock protein that helps repair damaged brain cells, reducing the risk of developing dementia. Studies show that sauna therapy helps release brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF plays a critical role in cognitive functions, including learning, memory, and higher-thinking processes, by supporting the survival and growth of neurons and fostering synaptic connectivity. 

Since dementia often causes depression and anxiety, you can take advantage of sauna bathing to reduce these symptoms. Research shows that whole-body hyperthermia can stimulate the release of endorphins, or feel-good hormones that naturally uplift your mood, relieve anxiety, and reduce depressive episodes among dementia sufferers. 

Top Sauna Recommendations for Dementia Patients

Mv Sauna World has many traditional and infrared saunas that will help relieve symptoms of dementia. 

The following model for home use is one of our favorites:

ALMOST HEAVEN HILLSBORO 2 PERSON INDOOR SAUNA

The Almost Heaven Hillsboro 2 Person Indoor Sauna is a marvel of modern sauna design, perfect for those with limited space. Its compact dimensions of 58”W x 39”D x 78”H make it an ideal addition to an apartment, bathroom, or even a closet without compromising on the authentic sauna experience. 

Equipped with a robust Harvia electric heater, the Hillsboro can reach temperatures up to 195 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing for a deeply penetrating heat that soothes muscles and calms the mind. Available in rustic fir or rustic red cedar, the choice of wood influences not only the sauna's appearance but also its aroma and ambiance. 

Safety is a priority with the Hillsboro Indoor Sauna. The thoughtful heater guard reduces the risk of accidental burns, allowing you to relax without worry. The sauna's design also includes a convenient bench that places you at the perfect distance from the heater, ensuring comfortable and safe heat exposure.

The Hillsboro is designed to accommodate both wet and dry sauna preferences. Simply add water to the stones to enjoy a traditional steam sauna experience. The sauna's user-friendly design means that within one hour, the temperature will reach a comfortable 175–185 degrees, perfect for a solo session of warmth and wellness.

How to Use Sauna for Dementia

Dementia is a sensitive topic, so you must approach the situation with care, understanding, and patience. Keep these pointers in mind to ensure a safe and potentially beneficial experience for your loved ones with dementia:

• Schedule sessions at the same time and on the same days to increase familiarity and reduce anxiety.

• To avoid dehydration, offer plenty of water before and after the sauna session.

• If you or your loved ones are new to the sauna, start with short sessions (about 5–10 minutes) and very mild temperatures, then gradually increase as they feel comfortable.

• Since music can help manage dementia symptoms by improving mood and cognitive function, consider playing soft, familiar melodies or binaural beats during the session. 

• Never let your loved one use a sauna alone. Always ensure there is a companion or caregiver present to assist if needed.

• Monitor body temperature carefully during the session to prevent overheating, which is especially important for those unable to express discomfort.

• Pay attention to signs of discomfort. If they seem dizzy, disoriented, or uncomfortable at any point, end the session immediately.

• After a sauna session, sit in a cooler, comfortable area to prevent sudden blood pressure drops.

Sauna and Dementia: The Takeaway

While it's true that we're still in the early stages of research, the evidence states that sauna therapy serves as a preventative measure against dementia and cognitive decline. However, before trying a sauna session, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you're currently on any medication or have pre-existing health conditions.

At My Sauna World, we offer a variety of traditional and infrared saunas that will become your personal retreat for mental clarity and physical well-being. We also offer a variety of other accessories, such as mood lights, aromatherapy diffusers, and backrests, so you can fully enjoy your sauna sessions. For more information, check out our website or contact us today!