ALZ Alaska Blog

Most of the country will lose an hour of sleep this coming weekend (March 9) with Daylight Saving Time. Sleep pattern changes – like those we experience during Daylight Saving Time – have been shown to affect different aspects of our physical and psychological health, including our brain health. In fact, research is published regularly that suggests poor sleep — like sleep apnea and insomnia — may increase our risk for dementia, while getting regular healthy sleep may reduce our risk of dementia.

At the same time, people living with dementia and their family caregivers often experience changes in sleep patterns, wandering and regular bouts of insomnia. This can be exhausting and stressful for everyone involved. But there are effective ways to manage sleep issues.

Following are tips that the Alzheimer’s Association offers to caregivers to help manage the coming time change:

• Get plenty of rest so you, the caregiver, are less likely to exhibit unintended nonverbal behavior, which can inadvertently contribute to the stress level of the person living with Alzheimer’s.
• People living with dementia have a very sensitive emotional radar and readily pick up the feelings of those around them. Try to always promote a sense of safety and security.
• Schedule activities, such as doctor appointments, trips and bathing, in the morning or early afternoon when the person living with dementia is more alert.
• Make notes about what happens before sundowning events and try to identify triggers.
• Reduce stimulation during the evening hours (i.e. TV, doing chores, loud music, etc.). These distractions may add to the person’s confusion.
• Offer a larger meal at lunch and keep the evening meal lighter.
• Exercise during the day is a wonderful way for the person to expend their energy. Take a walk in the park together or maybe play some music and clear a space to dance. Taking a walk with the person is also a good way to help reduce his or her restlessness.
• Talk to your physician about the best times of day for taking medication. When behavioral interventions and environmental changes do not work, discuss the situation with your doctor.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death of people in the United States. More than 6 million Americans, including are living with the disease, which currently has no prevention or cure. All programs and services of the Alzheimer’s Association are provided to families at no charge, including a
24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900), staffed by trained professionals. To learn more, go to http://www.alz.org.