Alzheimer’s can change sleep in many ways: frequent waking, daytime sleeping, nighttime restlessness, difficulty settling, calling out or wandering. Sleep disruption affects the caregiver too, so nighttime planning should protect both people.
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Rather than focusing only on bedtime, look at the whole 24-hour pattern.
Need help organizing the bigger care picture? Explore The Alzheimer’s Caregiver Compass™.
Track the 24-hour pattern
For several days, record wake time, naps, meals, activity, caffeine, medications, pain or discomfort, evening behavior and nighttime waking. This can give a clinician more useful information than a general statement that the person “doesn’t sleep.”
Support a clearer day-night rhythm
Regular daytime activity, daylight exposure and a consistent daily routine may help. Long or late naps can make nighttime sleep harder for some people. Keep evening activities calmer and reduce unnecessary stimulation.
Build a simple bedtime sequence
Use the same few steps each night when possible: toileting, comfortable clothing, a familiar quiet activity, appropriate lighting and bed. A predictable sequence can reduce the number of decisions the person has to process.
Make nighttime safer
Clear trip hazards, keep frequently used paths visible, use appropriate nightlights, and review doors and exits if nighttime wandering is a concern. Make sure emergency contact information is accessible to the caregiver.
Do not assume every sleep change is dementia
Pain, medication effects, urinary problems, sleep apnea, depression and other health issues can affect sleep. Contact a clinician when sleep changes are severe, sudden, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms.
This page is educational and does not replace individualized medical advice. Do not start, stop or change medicines or sleep products without appropriate professional guidance.
Sources and further reading: National Institute on Aging: Managing Sleep Problems in Alzheimer’s Disease; Alzheimer’s Association: Sleep Changes.
Organize routines, safety and caregiver notes
The Alzheimer’s Caregiver Compass™ brings these pieces together into one practical educational system.