Most of us have had this problem on occasion: that frustrating night when we have difficulty falling asleep. For individuals with dementia, various difficulties such as insomnia, restlessness, agitation or the condition known as “sundowning” can be an ongoing disruption to getting a good night’s sleep.
Causes of Sleep Problems
The Alzheimer’s Association reports that many people with Alzheimer’s experience changes in their sleep patterns. It is not uncommon for them to wake up more often and stay awake longer during the night. In some cases, difficulties sleeping at night may be caused by too much napping during the day.
Those with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia may also be experiencing a phenomenon known as “sundowning,” which occurs at the end of the day and typically causes anxiety and agitation. In addition, some conditions such as restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea or depression may contribute to sleep-related problems for individuals with dementia.
Toward a Better Night’s Sleep
While medications may be prescribed to help older adults sleep, the Alzheimer’s Association and various health organizations recommend looking for solutions to sleep problems without the aid of pills.
Here is some advice from the Alzheimer’s Association and others on how to help those with dementia get a better night’s sleep.
- Have set times for going to bed and getting up in the morning.
- Open the shades to allow natural light to come inside during the day. Provide a dark environment at night.
- Exercise regularly (daily if possible), but not too close to bedtime.
- Discourage or limit daytime napping.
- Eat dinner early in the evening, and discourage use of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and sugar.
- Establish a normal bedroom routine—i.e., washing up, brushing teeth, putting on pajamas, toileting, etc.
- Keep noise levels low at night by turning off or down the television and keeping voice levels low. Try to make the evening a calm, non-stressful time.
- Make sure that the house is not too hot or cold for comfortable sleeping. Provide an extra blanket in the winter just in case.
- Ensure that pajamas or nightgowns are not too warm, tight or restricting.
- Ensure the bed and bedding are comfortable. Don’t tuck the bedding in too tightly. Make sure the pillows are not too thin or thick.
- Make sure that the individual is not experiencing any pain or discomfort that could be disrupting sleep.
- Use a nightlight to make nighttime trips to the bathroom safer, but make sure it is not too bright or distracting.
- If bathing is not agitating to the individual, perhaps consider a relaxing warm (not hot) bath as a way to relax and induce drowsiness.
Dementia Symptoms has information about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease care communities across the country. For more information about dementia care communities near you, call (888) 364-5752.
