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Dementia Care

It is common for people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders to experience sleep issues. Many seniors suffering from dementia disorders are unable to sleep at night and will feel restless throughout the night. What makes the problem even worse is that sleep issues can worsen Alzheimer’s and other dementia disorders and it can become an endless loop.

Caregivers in dementia care facitlities cite confusion and night wandering as the most common problems of dementia disorders. The problem can persist even when the person is moved to a senior care facility. Dementia sufferers may be given sleep medications, but these medications can only work as first aid. Dementia care experts share the details of some of the most common sleep problems experienced by dementia sufferers.

Common Sleep Problems Experienced By Dementia Sufferers

It is not yet known to the scientific world why dementia patients experience confusion and sleep problems at night. All that is known is that dementia disorders affect the rain, resulting in cognitive issues. Results of many studies show that about twenty percent of people suffering from dementia disorders experience sundowning, which is enhanced feelings of confusion and anxiety late in the day. Many dementia sufferers also experience trouble sleeping and restlessness, which can result in increased behavioral issues.

Another highly diagnosed condition experienced by dementia sufferers is sleep apnea. Senior care professionals believe that sleep apnea is related to severe dementia disorders. Studies show that Alzheimer’s patients experience many respiratory events for every hour of sleep, which is caused by sleep apnea. Some of the common things that can increase sundowning and sleep issues in dementia patients include:

• Physical and mental exhaustion at the end of the day
• The disorientation caused by the inability to differentiate between nightmares and dreams from reality
• Biological problems mixing up day and night
• Fear and confusion caused by decreased lighting and misinterpreted shadows
• Normal changes happening to the sleep process due to aging

Sleep issues are common among people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia disorders. Some medical conditions and medicines can also affect the sleep pattern of dementia patients. Many seniors also experience sleep problems from other issues. Therefore, it is important to take a closer look at different medications taken by the person and other health issues to understand more about sleep issues. It can also be beneficial to implement a consistent evening routine and other healthy habits to support quality sleep in dementia sufferers.