Dementia and Sleeplessness: How to Resolve This Common Problem

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Dementia and Sleeplessness: How to Resolve This Common Problem

It is not uncommon for our loved ones with Alzheimer’s to experience changes in their sleep patterns. The combination of dementia and sleeplessness is still not completely understood, but it is believed that disruptions to the sleep pattern may play a role. The progression of the disease can lead to increased fatigue and exhaustion, making it more difficult for our loved ones to engage in daily activities.  Additionally, certain medications prescribed for dementia can have side effects that may worsen sleep problems.


Why a Good Night’s Sleep is Crucial for a Senior with Alzheimer’s


With decreased sleep quality in dementia can lead to an increase in delusions and restlessness, which could cause serious safety concerns for our loved ones. The risk of wandering and a  possibility of getting lost or injured. Additionally, seniors who are sleepy during the day may be less inclined to engage in healthy activities such as spending time outdoors, doing some exercise, engaging in conversations.  For our busy family caregivers, fulfilling the person’s care needs throughout the night or day can be challenging.  


Here are some Tips to Help

Try these guidelines for our loved ones with sleep patterns are disrupted:

  • Speak with a doctor, first of all, for a review of medications. By modifying the dosage timing each day this may help make a difference.
  • Adhere to a routine, waking up and going to bed around the same time each day, limiting caffeine, naps and heavy meals later in the day.
  • Include bedtime activities that are relaxing, such as a warm bath, turning off the television and playing quiet, calming music or reading.
  • If wandering is an issue, a wireless bed exit pad can notify you when a loved one gets up so that you can assist them.
  • Try placing a clock that differentiates between daytime and nighttime near the seniors bed.

By encouraging our loved ones to sleep on their side instead of their back or stomach. In recent studies it suggests that side sleeping may help clear brain waste more effectively, including excess beta amyloid. This study has been conducted on laboratory animals, so it is unclear if the results apply to humans. 


Amy's Helping Hands, the award-winning provider of home care in Windsor, Ontario and nearby areas, can help as well, with overnight caregivers who are awake and alert, looking after the older adult's needs throughout the night so you can get the rest you need. Our care team members are fully trained and experienced in creative, patient approaches to meeting the unique care needs of those with Alzheimer’s disease. Give us a call at 519-915-4370 for more information on our specialized in-home Alzheimer’s care services. 



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