Sleep Problems For People With Dementia

If your loved one has dementia, chances are good that they are not getting a good night's sleep.

 Your loved one's sleep habits may have gone topsy-turvy with the dementia keeping him from knowing the difference between night and day. These interruptions may mean that your loved one is napping throughout the day and night. When dealing with your loved one's sleep cycle, remain calm. Don't let your frustration turn to anger towards your loved one.

Arrange for a doctor's appointment to have the cause determined. Medical problems such as obstructive sleep apnea, where the throat muscles relax and obstruct airflow through the nose and throat, can occur. Restless legs syndrome and depression are also deep-sleep killing ailments that can keep your loved one awake at night.

The doctor may provide treatments for these underlying medical conditions to alleviate the sleep disturbances. However, it could be that brain damage caused by the dementia may be affecting your loved one's biological clock.

There are some ways that you can manage this challenging sleep-wake cycle in your loved one. Make sure that he or she is getting adequate sunlight, particularly early in the day. This can help orient his or her body clock. Sunlamps are also effective if you live in areas that don't get as much sunlight. Take your loved one for a walk or encourage another low-impact form of activity during the early part of the day. Your loved one will stay in shape and, again, utilize energy during prime daylight hours. 

You should also put together sleep routines for your loved one. Don't let him or her sleep too long during the day. If a nap is necessary, make sure it is a short one. If your loved one sleeps too long in the morning, wake him up earlier. Make sure that when your loved one does go to sleep, he or she has a very specific preparation routine for bed. Putting on pajamas, washing one's face, and brushing one's teeth can all be pre-bed tasks for your loved one.

As a caregiver, you are fully aware of the need to assist loved ones through toileting, reorientation into bed and giving emotional reassurance during the night. Your loved one may be disorientated during a night waking and have trouble finding the bathroom. Consider a commode next to the bed. Have night-lights in your home too.

If your loved one lives in a long-term care facility, inquire with the staff to find out how your loved one is sleeping there. It is extremely common for their sleep to be interrupted at care facilities due to noise and light exposure. Discuss your concerns with their care team and see what solutions they can provide.

If you've tried the above approaches, and your loved one is still having difficulty at night, his or her doctor may recommend medications. Dealing with your loved one's sleep problems can be stressful. However, keep in mind that problems with sleeping are often a stage in dementia that eventually passes. Many people with dementia sleep more during the latter stages of the illness. It is important for you, the caregiver, to get a good night's sleep too.

Resources: Alzheimer's Association, The Mayo Clinic, Better Health Channel