The Truth Behind Sleep Problems and Alzheimer’s

True or False? Many people with Alzheimer’s have noticeable sleep problems. If you thought so, then you are correct. Most adults as they age exhibit changes in their sleeping patterns, and those who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s often experience even more severe changes.

What are some of these change?

Has difficulty with falling asleep at night
Will frequently wake up at night
Takes naps during the day
Sleeps more during the day and stays awake more at night
Gets irritated or restless when the sun sets (a condition known as sundowning)
May pace or wander during night hours

What causes these changes?

Scientists are unsure why those who have Alzheimer’s are more prone to sleeping problems. One theory is that Alzheimer’s damages the brain, and then this changes the way the brain controls senses so it becomes confusing when to close your eyes and when to wake up.

What can you do to help your loved one?

There are several recommended changes in behavior and lifestyle to help with the sleep problems. Physicians believe that these tips might help:

Keep a regular schedule of eating meals, going to bed, getting up – all at the same time each day.
Limit naps in the day. Perhaps allow only one short nap, again the same time each day of approximately ½ an hour.
After waking up and eating breakfast, make sure to get some sunlight through a glass window, sitting outside, etc. Then when it’s bedtime, keep the lighting low so the individual’s internal clock is more accustomed to regimentation and “normal” patterns.
Try to have the individual engage in movement or simple exercise each day, but not within a few hours of the scheduled bedtime.
Avoid large meals, alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine beverages in the evenings.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature – not too hot or too cold.
Turn on a night light. Place security objects, such as a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or photo within easy reach.
Have a routine doctor’s checkup to rule out other health conditions that can play a role in sleep problems; these might include a urinary track infection, sleep apnea (occurs when throat muscles relax during sleep and obstruct the airflow through the nose and throat), restless leg syndrome. (a condition that causes discomfort when sitting or lying down which makes it difficult to sleep), depression, or pain.
Check with the physician about any drugs the loved one might be taking and see if they have side effects that can cause trouble with sleeping. Consider changing the medication or administering the medication at an earlier time in the day, per doctor’s orders, if this is the case.
If these tips are not sufficient, consider consulting with a physician and the possibility of adding a sleep medication. Sleeping pills such as zaleplon (Sonata) and zolpidem (Ambien), tranquilizers such as lorazepam (Ativan) and temazepam (Restoril), or tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline (Pamelor) and trazodone (Oleptro) are some routine physicians’ suggestions.

What can caretakers do for themselves?

You need to get enough sleep, too, and also take good care of yourself so you are better prepared to take care of someone else. You need your sleep so you have energy to meet the demands of caregiving.
Keep a regular schedule.
Get exercise, fresh air, and sunshine.
Don’t smoke; adjust your intake of caffeine and alcohol and eating of larger meals, especially at nighttime.
Use your bed only for sleeping and make sure the room has a comfortable temperature.
Rest, if needed, when your loved one is resting.
Get enough sleep at night.
Relax for a short time before sleeping. You might want to put on some music, write in a journal, read, or do muscle relaxation exercises.
If applicable, consider other family members, friends, or a hired caregiver to assist you in caregiving and to give you some time off.

What can caretakers do to take care of loved ones when they wake during the night?

Remain calm and reassuring; don’t argue or ask for explanations.
Ask what they might need (drink of water, bathroom, etc.).
Gently remind them that it’s nighttime and time to sleep.
If they get up and seem confused or are wandering, help guide them back to bed.

True or False? There are many behavior and lifestyle changes that can influence sleep patterns; these are important to try to help with sleep patterns, especially for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

How true!

Likewise, it is important to be aware of your own behaviors and lifestyle and make changes accordingly so your health can be maximized. Then you will be better equipped in caregiving.