Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disturbances can cause a great deal of stress for caregivers.  More than 60 percent of individuals with Alzheimer’s wander, making it difficult not only for the individual to rest, but the caregiver as well.  Try some of these tips to help caregivers combat sleep disturbances and obtain a better night rest.

• Try to keep the person with dementia active during the day.  Less naps mean he or she will be able to sleep better through the night.
• Make sure the individual has used the bathroom before going to bed.
• Place nightlights in the bathroom and hallways to avoid confusion.
• Be sure the sleeping arrangements are comfortable.
• If the individual wanders, make sure the house is set-up in such a way that he or she is less likely to injure his or herself.  Remove things in the hallway that the individual may trip over and set-up his or her bedroom in a way that is easy to navigate.
• Place deadbolts either higher or lower on doors so that the person with Alzheimer’s won’t be able to open outside doors.
• Enroll in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Medic Alert + Safe Return® program.

For more information about sleep disturbances or Medic Alert + Safe Return® call the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter to talk to a member of our clinical staff (614-457-6003) or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24 hour helpline (1-800-272-3900).

Mace, M.A., Nancy L., Peter V. Rabins, M.D., M.P.H. The 36 Hour Day. 3rd. Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2000.