### Helping Your Dad with Alzheimer’s Sleep Better at Night
If your dad has Alzheimer’s disease, he might experience a condition called sundowning, which makes him wake up disoriented at night. Sundowning is a common behavior in people with dementia, and it can be challenging for both your dad and you. Here are some simple steps you can take to help him sleep better and reduce sundowning symptoms.
#### 1. **Establish a Routine**
One of the most important things you can do is create a predictable routine. This means doing the same things at the same time every day, including meals, activities, and bedtime. A consistent routine helps your dad feel more secure and can reduce anxiety, which often triggers sundowning behaviors.
#### 2. **Keep the Environment Calm**
A calm environment is crucial for good sleep. Try to keep the room quiet and free from clutter. You can also play soft music or use white noise machines to create a soothing atmosphere. Avoid placing his bed near noisy areas like the kitchen or living room.
#### 3. **Use Natural Light**
Natural light exposure can help regulate your dad’s circadian rhythms, which can be disrupted in people with Alzheimer’s. Open the curtains during the day to let sunlight in, and consider using a light therapy lamp if he spends most of his time indoors.
#### 4. **Avoid Stimulants Late in the Day**
Stimulants like caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep. Avoid giving your dad these substances in the late afternoon or evening. Instead, opt for herbal teas or warm milk to help him relax.
#### 5. **Encourage Physical Activity**
Regular physical activity can help improve sleep quality. However, it’s essential to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime. Instead, try gentle activities like walking or stretching earlier in the day.
#### 6. **Manage Pain and Discomfort**
Pain and discomfort can significantly disrupt sleep. Ensure that your dad is comfortable and pain-free. Use pillows and mattresses designed for people with dementia, like the ThevoVital mattress, which can help reduce restlessness and improve sleep quality.
#### 7. **Minimize Interactions Before Bedtime**
Interactions with others, especially if they are stressful or stimulating, can make it harder for your dad to fall asleep. Try to minimize interactions before bedtime and encourage him to relax in a quiet space.
#### 8. **Consider Medication**
If your dad’s sundowning symptoms are severe, your doctor might recommend medication. Brexpiprazole (Rexulti) is an FDA-approved medication specifically designed to treat agitation associated with Alzheimer’s dementia. Other medications like antidepressants, anxiolytics, or antipsychotics might also be prescribed to help manage sundowning behaviors.
#### 9. **Monitor Melatonin Levels**
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Some research suggests that people with Alzheimer’s might have lower melatonin levels, which could contribute to sundowning symptoms. However, taking melatonin supplements should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can have side effects and interact with other medications.
#### 10. **Seek Professional Help**
If your dad’s sleep disturbances persist, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can assess his overall health and provide personalized advice on managing sundowning behaviors. They might also recommend additional therapies or interventions tailored to his specific needs.
By following these steps, you can help create a more comfortable and predictable environment for your dad, which can significantly improve his sleep quality and reduce sundowning symptoms. Remember, every person with Alzheimer’s is different, so it’s essential to tailor your approach to his unique needs and preferences.
