Bedtime Struggles and Sleep Problems

The following tips are provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.  ©2013 Alzheimer’s Association, reused with permission. People with Alzheimer’s and dementia may have problems sleeping or increases in behavioral problems that begin at dusk and last into the night (known… Read More

The following tips are provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.  ©2013 Alzheimer’s Association, reused with permission. Scientists don’t completely understand why sleep disturbances occur with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Some studies indicate as many as 20 percent of persons with… Read More

Just keep reassuring how much you love them and that you will be with them along this long journey one day at a time. Read More

Nighttime can be challenging and even more so for caregivers. We all tend to wear out by the end of the day, but you may notice that your loved one’s symptoms can appear to worsen in the late afternoon and evenings. People with dementia might also confuse day and nighttime,… Read More

Get your loved one laughing and joking before bedtime to make the transition to bedtime easier. Present the pajamas as a new gift that you got for your loved one. Let them open it and encourage them to put it on. These can be new pajamas or existing ones that… Read More

Talk to your local dentist about a guard to help minimize the grinding. A baby teething ring may help, too. Give them a clean wash cloth to chew on. Ask the doctor to check their sugar. Sometimes if they have high sugar levels at night, the teeth grinding is worse…. Read More

Focus on traditions that they may remember from their past. Consider what activities the person is involved in. Large groups might be too much for that person. Ask that person to share stories of their favorite Christmas or other holiday traditions. Read More

Reality orientation. Writing what time you went out on a card might help if your loved one can compare to their watch time. Reassurance. Distraction. Flexibility when their anxiety escalates is crucial. Schedule appointments and events at times when the person is less anxious. Consult with physician for an anti-anxiety… Read More

Staying calm yourself is one of the most important things you can do. The more agitated you become, the more likely the person with dementia will also become agitated. Try using a distractor that gives them pleasure—a TV show that calms them down, a food they enjoy, or a walk… Read More

If your loved one is struggling from abnormal sleep issues and his or her health is deteriorating, it is strongly recommended that you talk to his or her doctor about their sleeping patterns. This is not typical. You need to determine what is causing your loved one to sleep for… Read More