How to Help Alzheimer's Patients Sleep

Patients with Alzheimer's often exhibit disrupted sleep patterns, with many sufferers taking long naps during the day that prevent them from getting a good night's sleep. By helping these patients establish new routines to combat the effects of dementia, they may be able to improve the quality of their sleep.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Establish set routines. Have the patient wake up at a specific time every morning and go to bed the same time every night. Only allow one nap during the day and ensure that it lasts no longer than an hour.
2. Keep the patient active during the day. Create a schedule of activities, such as a 30-minute walk after dinner or a game of cards just before the afternoon nap. Don't let the patient nod off while watching television, or allow him to be unsupervised for long periods.
3. Serve the patient meals at a specific time every day. This will further establish a routine and prompt the patient to schedule additional activities around breakfast, lunch and dinner. Restrict snacks before bedtime, which can also cause the patient to lose sleep by increasing energy levels.
4. Have the patient spend at least 1 hour each day in sunlight or bright light. Subdued lighting can make the patient less alert and more prone to extended napping during the day.
5. Dim the lights at night. Many Alzheimer's patients complain that ambient light coming into the bedroom prevents them from getting enough sleep at night. Keep the house dark and quiet around bedtime.
6. Have the patient exercise at least 30 minutes every day. Tailor the regimen to the limitations of the patient. For instance, if the patient is in a wheelchair, have her do repetitive arm exercises.

Tips & Warnings

• Alzheimer's patients who experience insomnia should stop consuming caffeine. Restrict or eliminate any tea, coffee or soda that contains caffeine. Switching to decaffeinated coffee might help to ease the transition.