Sleep Restriction Impairs Cognitive Function: Meta-Analysis of 147 Studies
How Does Sleep Restriction Affect Cognitive Function and Mental Performance?
Sleep restriction significantly impairs multiple domains of cognitive function, with this comprehensive meta-analysis of 147 studies showing consistent deficits in attention, working memory, and cognitive processing speed. The effects are dose-dependent, with greater sleep restriction causing more severe cognitive impairment, and they occur across all age groups from children to older adults. Even modest sleep restriction (reducing sleep by 2-4 hours) produces measurable cognitive deficits that can impact academic performance, work productivity, and safety in daily activities.