Improving Sleep Quality in Dementia Patients
A diagnosis of dementia often means the need to adjust your lifestyle to best meet the needs of the patient. One of the most important aspects to consider is how to improve sleep quality in dementia patients. Poor sleep patterns can contribute to worsening of the mental health issues associated with dementia, so getting a handle on this from the start can make a major difference in quality of life.
Of course, getting quality sleep is easier said than done. Some of the strategies that can help are outlined below to help families get started on this journey and help their loved one get the best night’s sleep possible.
Taking steps to ensure that your loved one with dementia gets the best sleep possible is essential to their health. Whether done alone or with the help of a professional carer, creating routines that work for your own situation will be key in the battle to get a restful night’s sleep.
Adhere to a Regular Sleep Schedule
Perhaps the most important factor to improving sleep quality in dementia patients is creating a regular sleep schedule that you can consistently adhere to. Get up at the same time every day, and then create a pre-bedtime routine the patient can recognize. Try to keep the same routine every night so a signal is sent to the brain that it is time to get ready for sleep. Not having to think too much about what to do next can help a dementia patient settle down and rest more easily.
Alongside the regular sleep schedule, try to make sure the bedroom is as comfortable and peaceful as possible. Lower the lights, turn off the television and electronics, and provide enough blankets and pillows – or thin layers – for the patient to get comfortable.
Make Movement a Priority During the Daytime
Increasing physical activity during the day time is an important part of a healthy sleep routine for anyone, and particularly for dementia patients. There are various ways to do this, such as going for walks outdoors, enrolling in gentle exercise classes, swimming, or even gardening in the backyard. Be sure to speak to your doctor about activities that will be safe and beneficial for your loved one.
When planning outdoor activities, it is important to note the time of day to ensure that any high-energy activities are done prior to sunset. Keeping the person with dementia active throughout the daytime will help in regulating their natural sleep-wake cycle.
It is also important to help the patient remain comfortable during the day to avoid disruptions to their sleep at night. Encourage your loved one to keep hydrated and wear layers so they can adjust their clothing and temperatures.
Sundown Syndrome and Melatonin
- Ensure that any outings or events are done before sundown
- Don’t change their routine except in very specific cases
- Reduce stress by avoiding loud noises or crowded places
- Ask a doctor for melatonin-based medications, if available
Sundown Syndrome is a situation that often arises in dementia patients, where they become agitated, angry, and confused due to the decrease in sunlight during the evening. This can interfere with their sleep and cause distress. To help manage Sundown Syndrome, families should plan outdoor trips or activities before sundown to help maintain the regular sleep cycle. Additionally, some doctors suggest a daily dose of melatonin-based medication in order to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
Conclusion
Though living with a loved one with dementia can be difficult, working to establish healthy sleep patterns from the start can make a world of difference. With a few simple changes and tips, dementia patients can (with the help of family caregivers) make sure they get a restful night sleep and maintain a healthier, happier lifestyle.