Struggling with sleep is a very common problem that plagues individuals living with dementia. In fact, studies have found that an average of one-fourth to one-third of people with dementia suffer from insomnia. 

Watch the video below to learn more

The inability to sleep comes from the brain changes that occur with the disease combined with the age of most individuals with dementia – as the quality of sleep naturally deteriorates in seniors.

What can I do to help a person with dementia sleep better?

Things to avoid:

• Fatigue – being overtired can prevent sleep
• Low or dim lighting and shadows during waking hours
• Disruption of the daily schedule or routine
• Large meals, sugar, caffeine, alcohol or medications

Medical reasons that can cause sleep disruption:

• Depression and anxiety
• Breathing difficulties (such as snoring and pauses in respiration)
• Excessive body movements (such as restless leg syndrome or limb movement disorder)
• Metabolic syndromes
• Cancer

Way to improve sleep or boost healthy sleeping patterns:

• Set a bedtime routine! 
• Take a warm bath an hour or two before bedtime
• Avoiding Large meals, sugar, caffeine, alcohol or medications
• Getting natural light during the day
• Visit the primary care doctor to rule out any major or minor medical issues that can be causing the insomnia

Consider Respite Care

Sometimes we all need a little help to help us achieve our goals as caregivers. There is no shame in scheduling routine respite care. If you are in the Round Rock, Georgetown, or Austin, Texas area, Sundara Senior Living Respite Program gives caregivers a needed and welcome break. Learn more about our Respite Program.