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COPING STRATEGIES
INSOMNIA
It can be a cause for concern when a person in your care has difficulty sleeping at night. There may be fears that the person may wander at night and perhaps fall. Disturbed sleep can be bad for both the carer and the person. When caregivers are unable to get sufficient sleep themselves, they run the risk of accidents or illness.
Disrupted sleep patterns may well be a direct result of brain deterioration, but there are other factors that can contribute to the problem including
- depression
- pain
- leg cramps
- urinary infections
- side effects of medications
- sleep apnea (breathing difficulties)
- need for less sleep with increased age
- too much time in bed
- insufficient activity and exercise
- overtiredness - too fatigued to calm down and sleep
- too much caffeine and/or alcohol
- hunger
- upset from argument or particular activity
- disturbing dreams
- change of environment - moving into a new room or into a care facility
Try
- a medical check-up to eliminate possible medical problems
- having doctor adjust medications
- analgesic for pain where this is a problem - consult the doctor first
- mineral supplements and/or vitamin E for cramps
- monitoring whether the person feels too hot or too cold - the internal temeperature control can change with brain deterioration
- providing night lighting that avoids shadows which may contribute to agitation and hallucinations
- providing a clearly lit pathway to the toilet or a commode by the bed
- a clear uncluttered environment
- less time in bed - keep the person up a little later or get them out of bed earlier
- ensuring that the bed and pillows are comfortable and comforting
- maintaining a routine of daily exercise and activity and a set bed time
- a warm bath if the person finds it relaxing
- a light snack and/or calming drink - warm milk or camomile tea - before bed
- providing a safe area for night wandering
- a relaxing massage
- playing soft music
- medication for calming or antidepressants where recommended by a doctor
Avoid
- too much napping during the day
- too much caffeine or alcohol, especially in the evening
- upsetting activities like bathing or hair washing in the late afternoon
- setting out tomorrow's clothes the night before - this could give confusing visual clues
- sleeping pills - these may be helpful in the short term for re-establishing a regular sleep cycle, but can add to confusion on waking.
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