Alzheimer's Disease not only affects memory and behavior, it also affects the sleep/wake cycle. The more severe the disease, the sleepier the patient is. Due to the disrupted sleep/wake cycle, Alzheimer's patients may sleep for brief moments at a time throughout the day. They continually wake up throughout the night and can hardly stay awake during the day.

Studies have shown that very many patients with Dementia also have underlying sleep disorders, such as Sleep Disordered Breathing. Treating Snoring and Sleep Apnea may improve on their daytime functioning, as Sleep Apnea may lead to more sleep fragmentation and excessive daytime sleepiness. Below are a few helpful tips for creating a healthy sleep environment for patients suffering from Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia.

8 Sleep Tips for Patients with Dementia

1. Use the bedroom for sleeping only.
2. Keep the bedroom safe, comfortable, and familiar.
3. Keep a regular routine for awakening and for going to bed.
4. Spend time outdoors, daily, as this exposes the patient to sunlight and helps strengthen the circadian rhythm.
5. Limit naps during the day. One nap is fine, but no longer than 20-30 minutes.
6. Exercise daily, but not too close to bedtime.
7. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco intake.
8. Consult a physician about sleep disorders, pain management, and other underlying medical conditions.