Dementia and Sleep Disorder

Dementia is an irreversible loss of brain function that affects memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive processes. It is marked by brain cells not functioning as they should and dying off more quickly than they do in people without dementia. There is not a known cure for dementia, but certain known treatments can slow its progression.

Sleep disorders are the common problems in individuals with dementia along with other signs and symptoms of dementia, and the sleep loss may contribute making dementia severe.

How does dementia change sleep patterns?

Circadian rhythm is a collection of physical and psychological processes that guide our sleep-wake cycle by responding to indicators in our environment. People with dementia experience fundamental changes in their circadian rhythm that work against getting quality sleep on a regular schedule. [Source: SleepFoundation.org]

Further, dementia is associated with changes in the sleep structure. During the sleep our body cycles through a series of sleep stages from light to deep sleep and then dream sleep. People with dementia spend more time in earlier stages of sleep and this reduction of deep sleep could worsen dementia.

Some sleep disorders common in people with dementia

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): An overwhelming desire to move legs especially at night. It is common in people with a type of dementia called Lewy Body Dementia.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder: An uncontrollable movement of the arms and/or legs at night.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea: OSA is a condition marked by nighttime airway collapse leading to brief lapses in breathing. OSA is particularly common with Alzheimer’s disease, occurring in 40% of patients.

Depression: It is common in people with dementia and is seen at increasing rates as dementia progresses to more severe stages.

The management of sleep disorders in dementia

Sleep hygiene is the primary treatment for people with dementia. Below tips may help a person with dementia improve their sleep patterns:

Maintaining a regular schedule: Setting up a predictable wake and sleep time may help synchronize circadian rhythm in people with dementia. Creating a bed time routine like soothing activities before bed may help.

Limit naps: Napping during the day can decrease the sleep at night. Limit the practice of napping to less than 30 minutes.

Engage in physical exercise: Exercising before the bed can negatively affect sleep. However, doing exercise early in the day can lead to a better sleep at night.

Avoid stimulants: It is best to avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Even some medications to manage dementia can also affect your sleep patterns, so talk to your neurologist about the best time to have such medications.

Create a calming bedroom environment: Quiet and a dark room promotes sleep. Having well loved objects near the bed may benefit the good sleep patterns in people with dementia.

SEE ALSO: Some Principles of Communication with People with Dementia

Wrapping up…

Sleep disorders in dementia affect emotional and physical health, may worsen cognitive symptoms, and reduce quality of life for those with dementia. A neurologist or sleep specialist is in a good position to provide individualized sleep hygiene recommendations for a specific situation.

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