The brain does a lot when the body is asleep. Sleep is when the brain consolidates memories and performs vital functions, like removing waste products that build up when the body is awake. People who have Alzheimer’s disease are already dealing with changes to how their brains function. They may also experience disrupted sleep patterns, which can make the cognitive challenges they’re facing a lot more complicated. The key is for family caregivers to help aging adults with Alzheimer’s disease to get the best possible sleep, and Alzheimer’s care providers can help.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Consistency is key for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease in general, but it’s really important when it comes to establishing good sleep habits. Having a regular sleep schedule helps to regulate the body’s internal clock. This helps other routines to fall in line with a consistent schedule, too.
Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
Having a calming bedtime routine is also helpful. Seniors may enjoy listening to music, stretching, or reading a book they like. These activities help to serve as cues to the brain that it’s time to wind down and start going to sleep. This can also be a good time to try relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or guided meditations.
Ensure a Comfortable Sleep Environment
It’s a lot easier for seniors to get the sleep they need when their bedtime environment supports a calm, sleep-friendly experience. Home care providers can help to make sure that the room is at the right temperature, that there’s just enough light when needed, and that the house is quiet when it’s time for seniors to head to sleep. Things like blackout curtains, nightlights, and white noise machines can all help.
Limit Daytime Napping
Plenty of seniors have trouble with daytime napping, but this is not helpful for sleep later. If someone has Alzheimer’s disease, it’s even more important that they avoid napping during the day and get plenty of sleep overnight. Setting a consistent sleep routine can help with this goal.
Promote Regular Exercise
Seniors with Alzheimer’s may find that they have excess energy during the day. If that energy isn’t expended, it might keep them awake at night. Light, regular exercise throughout the day can be a huge help in improving sleep quality. Alzheimer’s care providers can help to remind patients to get that movement in during the day.
Manage Light Exposure
Natural light exposure during the day helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which is so important for sticking with a consistent sleep schedule. Caregivers can encourage seniors with Alzheimer’s disease to spend time outside in the morning to soak up morning light. When evening rolls around, it’s important for seniors to have a calm, slightly darker environment before bed. Keeping brighter lights off helps the body and brain to unwind and get to sleep.
Address Discomfort or Pain
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease may not be able to communicate what’s keeping them up at night. Discomfort or pain can be a big factor in sleep disturbances, so it’s important to address those issues. Experienced Alzheimer’s care providers can help stay alert for signs of trouble.
Seek Professional Guidance
If sleep problems don’t go away after trying all the right habits, there might be more going on. Talking with medical professionals can help to uncover bigger underlying issues. Resolving these can help aging adults with Alzheimer’s disease the sleep they need.
Quality sleep is entirely possible for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, but they might need a little more help getting it. Alzheimer’s care providers can make a big difference for aging adults and their family members.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s care in South Mills, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. Call (252) 335-1409
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Canton, Edenton, Ahoskie, South Mills, Moyock, Windsor, Plymouth, Manteo, Kill Devil Hills and Elizabeth City in North Carolina.
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