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Dementia and Sleeping: How to Support Better Rest for Your Loved Ones

Dementia and Sleeping. A senior woman is in the bed trying to fall asleep.

Sleep is an essential building block of good health no matter your age, but for seniors with dementia, getting a good night’s rest is non-negotiable. Dementia and sleeping are deeply intertwined so guiding your loved one to get quality sleep is an important part of their care routine. 

Not getting enough sleep can worsen dementia symptoms like agitation and confusion and can contribute to an increased risk of falls. Studies suggest a strong correlation between dementia and sleeping poorly, as fragmented sleep can impair brain function and memory. At The Vincent Senior Living in Lafayette, Louisiana, we strive to make every moment meaningful for your loved one whether they are awake or asleep. 

How does Dementia Affect Sleep?

Dementia and sleeping are connected on many levels. Sleep issues can cause your loved one to feel sleepy during the day or not tired at night. Having trouble falling asleep and waking too early in the morning are also common issues for dementia parents. 

Another issue concerning dementia and sleeping is sundowning. This is a symptom of dementia that presents as loved ones becoming increasingly confused, restless and agitated during the late afternoon and into the nighttime hours. 

Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that is more common in people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping or choking and pauses in breathing while asleep. 

Dementia and Sleeping: Understanding the Causes of Sleep Problems

Understanding the causes of sleep problems in loved ones with dementia can help us apply strategies for better sleep as their care partners. 

Dementia causes changes in the brain that affect seniors’ internal “clock”. While the causes linking dementia and sleeping aren’t known for certain, it is often thought that the breakdown of the circadian rhythm may be to blame. Aging can also change sleep patterns and contribute to impaired melatonin regulation. 

There are many other reasons someone with dementia might have issues sleeping. Dementia and sleeping-related problems can include:

  • Not enough exposure to natural sunlight during the day.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.
  • Being overly tired or not sleepy at bedtime. 
  • Feeling hungry or thirsty.
  • Being too hot or too cold.
  • Feeling stressed. 
  • Having chronic pain.
  • A chaotic sleeping environment, such as a noisy or bright room.
  • Side effects of medication. 
  • Poor dietary choices including excessive caffeine, sugar or alcohol.

Practical Tips to Help Your Loved Ones with Dementia Sleep Well

Plan the Day

  • Maintain a morning routine. 
  • Inspire your loved ones to stay active during the day.
  • Schedule social activities. A research study found that people with dementia who participated in one to two hours of social activity every day showed improved nighttime sleep. 
  • Try to schedule challenging tasks for the morning or early afternoon.
  • Encourage exercising. Aim for one or two walks a day or try low-impact exercise such as yoga.
  • Avoid sleeping during the day.
  • Limit stimulants like caffeine, alcohol and screentime which can all negatively affect the circadian rhythm.

Create a Supportive Sleep Environment in the Bedroom

  • Try to keep the bedroom at a constant, comfortable temperature. If your loved one wakes up during the night, ask them if they’re too cold or too warm.
  • Make the bedroom feel familiar and comfortable with cherished personal items. 
  • Use dim nightlights to softly light the room and keep your loved one safe if they awake during the night.
  • Remove bedroom mirrors if the person can’t recognize themselves in the reflection.
  • Put daytime clothes out of sight. Seeing daytime clothes may make your loved one believe it’s time to get up.

Consider Medical Options

  • Check all medications for side effects. Seniors with dementia usually take several different medications throughout the day. 
  • Keep a sleep log or diary to help identify your loved one’s sleep patterns.
  • Ask your parent’s doctor about sleep medications. Medications should be used cautiously when addressing dementia and sleeping problems, as some sedatives can worsen cognitive impairment.
  • Consider using pain relief at bedtime to reduce chronic pain or discomfort.
  • Talk to your doctor about potentially using melatonin, which is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that aids restful sleep.
Dementia and Sleeping. Giving pills to a senior man.

Focus Carefully on the Bedtime

  • Keep a consistent schedule. Establishing a comfortable bedtime routine can help improve dementia and sleeping difficulties by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime confusion.
  • Create a regular relaxing bedtime routine.
  • Try a calming back rub, hair brushing or gentle foot massage, if it’s appropriate.
  • Encourage a soothing bath or shower before bed.
  • Prepare caffeine-free herbal tea or warm milk served with a light snack to reduce nighttime hunger. 
  • Play relaxing music or white noise in the bedroom.
  • Try a weighted blanket to reduce anxiety. A weighted blanket should equal about 10% of a senior’s weight to provide a calming effect.
  • Gently remind them that it’s night-time and time to sleep.
  • Try aromatherapy.
  • Use the bed only for sleep. Avoiding other activities in bed helps signal to the body that it is time for a long sleep. If possible, have your loved one nap in a different room on a chair or couch.
  • Avoid all screens before bedtime. Blue light emitted from screens negatively affects sleep quality. If your dementia parent enjoys reading, switch to a red reading light for bedtime.
  • If your loved one refuses to go to bed, offer an alternative such as sleeping on the couch.

Additional Support and Options

As dementia progresses, sleep problems and other symptoms may become more challenging and may require additional support. Families navigating dementia and sleeping challenges can often benefit from professional guidance and support groups to help manage care for their loved ones more effectively. 

If you are struggling to manage your loved one’s needs at home, memory care can be a wonderful solution. Seeking help is a sign of profound care and love. Connecting with a senior living community can open the door to enhanced well-being for both you and your loved one. 

At The Vincent Senior Living community, we offer 24-hour specialized care services in a welcoming, homelike environment. With thoughtfully designed features, advanced medical technology, and an experienced, compassionate care team, we are dedicated to meeting your loved one’s unique needs while promoting their comfort and happiness. We invite you to visit us and experience how our community fosters a supportive and uplifting atmosphere where your loved one can thrive. Contact us today to schedule your personal tour.