Problems With Sleeping

Have them checked out by a medical professional who understands dementia. People with dementia often have underlying medical problems which they are unable to describe.  Having their doctor prescribe a sleeping medication does not address the issue if there is another underlying physical problems.

If they have been prescribed a medication for pain, make sure they are taking as directed. Aspirin or other over the counter pain medications can also be helpful if given prior to bedtime and should be discussed with their physician.

Discuss with your doctor about restless legs. They may need to adjust medications or prescribe a new medication for this.

Depression is common with seniors and often found in individuals who sleep too much or do not sleep enough. Discuss with your physician about having them assess the possibility of depression.

Medications of have side affects, which include sleep disturbances. Ask your doctor to examine the meds currently being taken, such as diuretics. Remember that some medications affect people with dementia differently than they do people not suffering from the disease.o wander and take all necessary precautions. See “Tips” below.

Sundowning may be caused by the person being tired. Take measures to try and have them sleep well at night and have them take a nap shortly after lunch. Other coping strategies include:

1. Playing music they enjoy to calm or distract them.
2. Give them meaningful activities to do during the day.
3. Give them something to hold and fiddle with.
4. Try dancing or going for a walk.
5. Play an old movie or TV show they enjoy.
6. Close the blinds to shut out the darkness.
7. Keep room well lit. Consider light bulbs which simulate real daylight.
8. Try to minimize things which over-stimulate and limit the number of visitors during the time of day they get agitated.

As people age, they often require less sleep. If the person is spending a lot of time in bed, try having them stay up a little later or waking a little earlier and getting out of bed.

Try to limit or prevent daytime napping to see if that makes a difference. If the person becomes extremely fatigued, agitated or begins to sundown, experiment with the length of naps and see how it affects their problematic behaviors. A short nap after lunch but not too late in the day is often preferred.

Adults can become agitated or begin to sundown when they are too tired. Similar to children, they become cranky when fatigued or tired. Focus on making sure they are well rested by having them to nap just after lunch  and addressing nighttime sleep problems. Those who do a lot of wandering and walking may also be suffering from being too tired (see wandering section).

Many people require activity in order to stay calm and sleep well at night. Try taking at least one or two brisk walks daily. Dancing, outside chores and other physical activities should also be incorporated into the daily routine if possible.

While some people find alcohol relaxing, it can disrupt sleep patterns and also may cause reactions to medications.  Caffeine consumption (such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, energy drinks) should be limited or avoided and if consumed, done early in the day.

Going to bed hungry can make it difficult to sleep well. Remember that they may not be able to realize they are hungry or communicate it. Try a small snack, warm milk or herbal tea prior to bedtime.

Many people find sleeping on the sofa or on a recliner to be more comfortable. If they prefer this and it is safe, then allowing them to sleep in areas other than their bed can be beneficial.