Sleep Capital: Linking brain health to wellbeing and economic productivity across the lifespan

Abstract

Sleep capital contributes to individual and societal wellbeing, productivity, and economic outcomes and involves a novel aspect of brain capital. It encompasses the quality and quantity of sleep as integral components that influence cognitive abilities, mental and brain health, and physical health, affecting workplace productivity, learning, decision-making, and overall economic performance. Here, we bring a framework to understand the complex relationship between sleep quality, health, wellbeing, and economic productivity. Then we outline the multilevel impact of sleep on cognitive abilities, mental/brain health, and economic indicators, providing evidence for the substantial returns on investment in sleep health initiatives. Moreover, sleep capital is a key factor when considering brain health across the lifespan, especially for the aging population. We propose specific elements and main variables to develop specific indexes of sleep capital to address its impacts on health, wellbeing and productivity. Finally, we suggest policy recommendations, workplace interventions, and individual strategies to promote sleep health and brain capital. Investing in sleep capital is essential for fostering a healthier, happier, fairer and more productive society.