Many people with dementia experience changes in their sleep patterns. This can make it difficult for them to get the rest they need and lead to confusion and frustration.

In this blog post, we'll explore the link between dementia and sleep and discuss some ways to help improve your loved one's sleep. Stay tuned for helpful tips on how to get a good night's sleep, even if your loved one has dementia.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a term used to describe a decline in cognitive function. It is an umbrella term that includes a variety of symptoms, including memory loss, impaired language skills, and difficulty with problem-solving and planning.

Dementia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer's, stroke, and Parkinson's. While there is no cure for dementia, treatments available can help slow the condition's progression.

In addition, many support groups and resources are available for caregivers and those living with dementia. With proper care and support, anyone with dementia can enjoy a good quality of life.

What is the Link Between Dementia and Sleep

Dementia is an umbrella term for several different conditions that cause cognitive decline. One of the most common symptoms of dementia is sleep problems. This can include difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently throughout the night, feeling exhausted during the day, or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Studies have shown that a sleep disorder or poor sleep can worsen dementia symptoms and accelerate cognitive decline. One theory is that sleep problems cause a buildup of toxins in the brain that damage neurons. Another theory is that sleep helps to clear out harmful proteins that build up in the brain in dementia patients. Regardless of the underlying cause, it is clear that there is a strong link between dementia and sleep patterns.

How Does Dementia Change Sleep Patterns?

Dementia is a condition that impacts many older adults, and one of the ways it manifests is through changes in sleep patterns. One of the reasons for this is that dementia can damage the cells in the suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN.

This part of the brain regulates our internal clock and tells us when we should feel alert or sleepy. When the SCN isn't functioning properly, it can be difficult to stick to a regular sleep schedule. In addition, dementia can also cause changes in circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythm is a collection of physical and psychological processes that guide our sleep-wake cycle in response to cues from our environment.

In people with dementia, these processes are often disrupted, making it harder to get quality sleep regularly. When caring for someone with dementia, it's important to be aware of these changes and take steps to ensure they get the rest they need.

What Stage Do Dementia Patients Sleep a Lot?

It is not uncommon for people with dementia to sleep for long periods during the day. However, this can vary depending on the type of dementia they have. For example, with Lewy body disease, people often sleep during the day but have difficulty sleeping at night. This is due to the confusion, nightmares, and hallucinations that are common symptoms of this type of dementia.

Insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless legs can also make it difficult for people with Lewy body disease to get a good night's sleep. As a result, they may often unknowingly act out their dreams by shouting or moving around in bed. When caring for someone with dementia, it is important to be aware of these potential sleep issues and talk to a doctor about ways to manage them.

What are the Common Sleep Disorders Associated with Dementia?

There are several sleep disorders that are common in people suffering from dementia. While some of these disorders are common in older adults, they are often exacerbated by the cognitive decline associated with dementia. The most common sleep disorders associated with dementia include:

• Insomnia: Many people with dementia suffer from insomnia, or the inability to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can be caused by various factors, including anxiety, stress, natural body clock/cycle changes, and pain.
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep. This can be caused by various factors, including sedative medications, changes in the anatomy of the airway, and weight gain.
• Restless Legs Syndrome: This is a condition in which a person feels an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, often accompanied by an unpleasant sensation such as tingling or itching. Restless leg syndrome is common in people with Lewy body dementia, which may progress into Parkinson's disease dementia. This can be caused by various factors, including changes in the nervous system, iron deficiency, and medications.
• REM sleep behavior disorder: This condition in which a person acts out their dreams during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This can be caused by various factors, including changes in brain chemistry, medications, and sleep deprivation.
• Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD): This is a condition in which a person experiences involuntary movements of their limbs during sleep. This can be caused by various factors, including changes in brain chemistry, medications, and iron deficiency.

What Can Improve Sleep for Someone with Dementia

Sleep disturbances can affect anyone with dementia and their family members or caregivers. These disturbances can worsen as dementia progresses. According to the National Sleep Foundation, people with dementia are more likely to experience disturbed sleep, fragmented sleep, or difficulty falling asleep. The following tips will help you and your loved one with dementia get a good night's sleep:

• Establish a regular sleep schedule. A bedtime and wake time can help regulate the body's natural sleep/wake cycle.
• Create a calming bedtime routine. A relaxing activity before bed, such as reading or taking a bath, can help promote sleep.
• Limit daytime sleep (naps). Napping during the day can make it more difficult to fall asleep at night.
• Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help improve sleep quality. You may also try meditation or relaxation techniques to help wind down before bed for deep sleep.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Caffeine can increase wakefulness, while alcohol can disrupt sleep.
• Create a comfortable sleep environment: A cool, dark, and quiet room can help promote a better night's sleep.
• Provide proper lighting: Evening bright light therapy can help improve sleep for people with dementia. By reducing body clock disturbances, bright light therapy can improve daytime alertness and nighttime sleep.
• Use medications cautiously: Some medications used to treat dementia can cause side effects that interfere with sleep. If your loved one is taking medication, talk to their doctor about possible side effects.
• Treat pain and underlying medical conditions: Pain and other medical conditions like a sleep disorders can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage pain and other conditions.
• Encourage social activity: Staying socially active during the day can help improve sleep at night. A study on how social activity affects sleep found that people with dementia who participated in at least one hour of social activity during the day reported improved nighttime sleep.

These sleep hygiene measures are good for getting a good night's sleep for anyone with dementia. However, this can be difficult for many people living in a nursing home, especially those with dementia.

Some of the usual sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep routine, may be difficult or even impossible for someone with dementia. However, there are still things that can be done to help promote better sleep. For example, adding a white noise machine to the bedroom can help to mask outside noise and create a more soothing environment.

It's also important to keep wake time consistent, even if bedtime is not. This can help to stabilize the circadian rhythm and promote better sleep overall. Talk to your doctor or a sleep specialist if you're unsure what sleep hygiene practices would be most helpful for your situation. They will be able to provide individualized recommendations based on your specific needs.

Can Medication Help With Sleep for Anyone with Dementia

Medications can help manage sleep problems in people with dementia, but they are typically seen as a last-resort option. Sleeping pills' most common side effects include confusion, sedation, and impaired motor skills, which can increase the risk of falls or other injuries.

It's important to talk with a doctor before starting any type of sleep medication to weigh the risks and benefits properly. In some cases, the risks may outweigh the benefits, and alternative methods to improve sleep routine and quality should be explored.

However, for people who do not respond to other treatment methods and who are struggling with severe insomnia, sleep-inducing medications can be an effective way to improve sleep quality and quantity.

How to Handle Someone with Dementia When they Wake Up at Night

If you have a loved one with dementia, you may occasionally deal with a sleep disturbance or nighttime agitation. It can be exhausting, but it's important to stay calm and determine the cause of the problem. It could be something as simple as discomfort or pain. Once you've determined the source of the issue, you can take steps to resolve it.

For example, if constipation is a problem, you can help your loved one take a stool softener or eat a high-fiber diet. If he or she is pacing, don't restrain him or her; instead, let him or her pace under your supervision. Gently remind your loved one that it's nighttime and time for sleep. You can help your loved one get through these difficult moments with patience and understanding.

Does Sleep Quality Matter for People with Dementia?

While the quantity of sleep a person with dementia gets is important, the quality of their sleep is just as crucial. Poor sleep can lead to several problems, including irritability, depression, and anxiety. It can also cause difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and an overall decline in cognitive function.

In addition, poor sleep can adversely affect a person's physical health, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. For all these reasons, it is important to ensure that people with dementia get good quality sleep. Several ways to improve sleep quality include establishing a regular bedtime routine, limiting caffeine intake, and creating a calm and comfortable sleeping environment. By taking these steps, caregivers can help promote better sleep for people with dementia and improve their overall quality of life.

What Other Sleep Disturbances are Associated with Dementia

Sundowning is a condition that is often associated with dementia. It refers to the phenomenon of people with dementia becoming more confused and agitated as the day goes on. While the exact cause of sundowning is unknown, several theories have been proposed.

Some research suggests that sundowning may be related to increased beta amyloid proteins in the brain during the evening hours. One theory is that disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle cause sundowning. People with dementia often have difficulty sleeping at night, leading to fatigue and confusion during the day.

Another theory is that changes in lighting cause sundowning. The light level decreases as the sun goes down, triggering confusion and agitation. Regardless of the cause, sundowning can be challenging for those with dementia and their caregivers. Several strategies can help manage sundowning, such as providing a calm environment, keeping a regular routine, and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine.

Other treatments for sundowning include environmental and behavioral interventions, as well as medication. Timed bright light exposure and increased daytime activity may help to reduce sundowning behaviors. Daytime naps should be avoided, and meals should be eaten at regular times to help maintain a regular circadian rhythm.

What are the Best Sleep Aids for Dementia Patients

Dementia is a debilitating condition that can lead to a decline in cognitive function and a loss of independence. Sleep disturbances are common in people with dementia, and they can often worsen the condition's symptoms.

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the body that helps to regulate sleep. Several studies have shown that melatonin supplements can help improve sleep quality in people with dementia. Additionally, melatonin might help reduce sundowning, a common symptom of dementia characterized by increased agitation and confusion in the evening. If you consider using melatonin as a sleep aid for a loved one with dementia, it is important to speak with a doctor first to determine the best dosage.

Can Sleep Problem Result in Dementia

A 2009 study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry found that sleep problems may be a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia. The study, a systematic review, and meta-analysis of previous research analyzed data from 51 eligible reports out of 11155.

The findings showed that people with sleep problems were more likely to experience cognitive decline or develop dementia than those without sleep problems. While the exact mechanism is unclear, the authors suggest that sleep may play a role in clearing out toxins in the brain during wakefulness. This buildup of toxins has been linked to cognitive impairment and dementia. Therefore, the findings of this study suggest that improving sleep could help to prevent or delay the onset of these conditions.

What is the Relationship Between Sleep and Aging Dementia?

A study has found that lack of sleep in middle age may increase the risk of developing dementia later in life. The study researchers at the University of Edinburgh conducted looked at data from nearly 8,000 people in Britain over 31 years.

Participants were asked six times between 1985 and 2016 how many hours they slept each night. The data showed that those who got six hours or less of sleep each night were 30% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia later in life than those who got a normal amount of sleep (defined as 7 hours).

The study also found that accelerometers, worn on the wrist to measure sleep time objectively, confirmed the accuracy of self-reporting. Quality slow wave sleep can boost metabolic clearance and memory functions, which may slow the process of cognitive aging. These findings suggest that getting enough sleep is important for brain health and that middle-aged adult should try to get a good night's rest.

Bottom Line

Dementia and sleep are both complex issues that warrant further study. However, we know that the two have a strong relationship. While sleep problems are common in dementia, they can also be caused by other health conditions.

You must consult your doctor to rule out other potential causes if you're having trouble sleeping. You can do some things to help improve your sleep if you have dementia, including following a regular bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga.

Getting good quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, so it's important to find what works best for you and stick to it.