Alzheimer’s and Sleep Changes

Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging journey for both patients and their families. In addition to memory and cognitive changes, Alzheimer’s can also bring about significant sleep disturbances. If you or a loved one is facing Alzheimer’s and the accompanying sleep problems, this blog post is here to provide insight and practical strategies. We will explore the connection between Alzheimer’s and sleep changes, common sleep disturbances in individuals with the disease, and how to manage them effectively to promote better sleep and overall well-being.

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Alzheimer’s Disease and Sleep

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder characterised by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behaviour and personality. As Alzheimer’s advances through the brain it leads to increasingly severe symptoms, including disorientation, mood and behaviour changes; confusion, and difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking. These cognitive changes can have a significant impact on sleep patterns.

Sundowning: Many Alzheimer’s patients experience “sundowning,” where confusion and agitation worsen in the late afternoon and evening, often disrupting sleep.

Disrupted Circadian Rhythms: Alzheimer’s can affect the body’s internal clock, leading to irregular sleep-wake patterns and excessive daytime napping.

Changes in Behaviour: Behavioural and psychological symptoms of Alzheimer’s, such as wandering or repetitive behaviours, can disrupt sleep schedules.

Medication Side Effects: Some medications used to manage Alzheimer’s symptoms can affect sleep, either by promoting drowsiness or causing restlessness.

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Common Sleep Disturbances in Alzheimer’s Patients

Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can be exacerbated by the confusion and anxiety associated with Alzheimer’s.

Nighttime Awakenings: Alzheimer’s patients may wake up frequently during the night, leading to fragmented sleep and increased daytime sleepiness.

Day-Night Reversal: Some individuals with Alzheimer’s may become active during the night and increasingly sleepy during the day, causing further sleep disruption.

Increased Risk of Sleep Apnoea: Alzheimer’s patients may be at a higher risk of sleep apnoea, a condition where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): RLS, characterised by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, can disrupt sleep patterns.

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Strategies for Managing Sleep Disturbances in Alzheimer’s Patients

Routine and Consistency: Establishing a regular daily routine can help regulate the body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: A quiet, dark, and comfortable sleep space can promote better sleep. Limit noise and light, and use supportive pillows if necessary.

Medication Review: Alzheimer’s medications may affect sleep, so it’s important to discuss the potential side effects with your GP, who may recommend adjustments or changes if sleep is troubling you.

Behavioural Approaches: Techniques such as cognitive-behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) can be effective in managing sleep disturbances. CBT-I is an evidence-based therapy that helps you identify and change thoughts and behaviours that contribute to sleep problems. It’s highly effective in treating insomnia. It helps change negative thought patterns and behaviours related to sleep. Sleepio is a CBT-I treatment that works with you to develop a personalised insomnia treatment plan, empowering you to challenge negative thought patterns, establish healthy sleep habits, and enjoy restful nights of sleep.

Manage Anxiety and Agitation: Strategies for managing Alzheimer’s-related anxiety and agitation can also contribute to improved sleep.

Minimise Stimulants: Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Alzheimer’s and sleep changes often go hand in hand, and addressing sleep disturbances is crucial for the well-being of patients and their caregivers. Strategies for managing these issues are available to promote better sleep quality. Whether it’s through routine and consistency, creating a comfortable sleep environment, or discussing medication adjustments with your GP, there are steps you can take to improve sleep in the midst of Alzheimer’s. A good night’s sleep remains an essential part of maintaining overall health and well-being, and understanding how to address sleep issues in Alzheimer’s is a key component of that process.