Alzheimer’s & Sleep Problems: How to Improve Rest for Your Loved One

A Caregiver’s Challenge: Sleepless Nights & Restless Mornings

Siri had been caring for her father, who had Alzheimer’s, for years. She expected memory loss, but what she didn’t expect were the sleepless nights—her father waking up confused at 3 AM, wandering the house, or napping all day but struggling to sleep at night. Exhausted, she wondered if there was any way to help him (and herself) get proper rest.

If you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, you’re not alone. Sleep disturbances affect up to 50% of people with Alzheimer’s, making nights challenging for both patients and caregivers. Let’s explore why this happens and what you can do to improve sleep quality.

Why Do Alzheimer’s Patients Have Sleep Issues?

People with Alzheimer’s sleep problems and other types of dementia often struggle with circadian rhythm disruptions—their internal clock becomes misaligned. Common sleep problems include:

✅ Insomnia – Trouble falling or staying asleep
✅ Daytime drowsiness – Feeling excessively sleepy during the day
✅ Frequent night waking – Waking up multiple times during the night
✅ Sundowning syndrome – Confusion, anxiety, and restlessness in the evening
✅ Sleep apnea – Interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to poor rest

Several factors can worsen these sleep disturbances:

• Exhaustion at the end of the day
• Changes in the body’s natural clock
• New or unfamiliar surroundings
• Pain, hunger, or discomfort
• Low lighting and shadows, which can trigger anxiety

What You Can Do: 8 Proven Strategies for Better Sleep

Here are practical, expert-backed strategies to help your loved one (and you) sleep better.

1. Stick to a Routine

✔️ Keep a consistent wake-up and bedtime schedule
✔️ Serve meals at the same time daily
✔️ Create a bedtime ritual (gentle music, dim lights, reading aloud)

2. Optimize the Sleep Environment

🔹 Use soft lighting to reduce shadows that may cause confusion
🔹 Maintain a comfortable temperature (not too hot or cold)
🔹 Remove distractions (TVs, phones, or loud noises)

3. Encourage Physical Activity

🚶‍♂️ Gentle walks, light stretching, or chair exercises during the day can reduce nighttime restlessness. Avoid heavy activity before bed.

4. Reduce Naps

Limit daytime naps, especially in the afternoon, to help maintain a proper sleep-wake cycle.

5. Manage Medications

💊 Some medications, like antidepressants or cholinesterase inhibitors, may cause insomnia. Talk to a doctor about adjusting doses or timing.

6. Use Light Therapy

☀️ Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning helps regulate the body’s clock. If that’s not possible, a light therapy box may help.

7. Try Melatonin

Melatonin supplements can sometimes improve sleep and reduce sundowning symptoms. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

8. Minimize Stimulants

🚫 Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol—especially in the evening. Screen time before bed can also disrupt sleep.

What to Do When They Wake Up at Night

t’s common for Alzheimer’s patients to wake up confused or anxious during the night. Here’s how to handle it calmly:

🔹 Stay calm and reassure them – Anxiety can escalate if they sense your stress
🔹 Check for discomfort – Ensure they aren’t too hot, cold, or in pain
🔹 Allow safe pacing – If they need to move, let them do so in a secure environment
🔹 Avoid arguments – Gently redirect rather than contradict their feelings

Should You Use Sleep Medications?

Sleep medications can increase confusion and fall risk in older adults with Alzheimer’s. They’re usually not recommended, but in severe cases, doctors may prescribe short-term solutions.

Instead, focus on natural sleep strategies first before considering medication.

Caregivers Need Sleep Too

Taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s is exhausting, and your well-being matters too. If sleep deprivation is overwhelming, consider:

✔️ Asking family members for help
✔️ Seeking respite care services
✔️ Connecting with Alzheimer’s support groups

If you feel physically or emotionally drained, reach out for support—you don’t have to do it alone.

Final Thoughts: Helping Your Loved One Rest Better

Managing Alzheimer’s-related sleep problems is challenging, but small changes can make a big difference. By creating a structured routine, optimizing the sleep environment, and addressing potential triggers, you can help your loved one sleep better—and improve your own rest too.

💡 Did You Know? Alzheimer’s sleep problems patients who sleep well show better memory retention and mood stability!