My FIL whom has been living with us for 13 months cannot get more than 3-4 hrs sleep even with a couple of perscription sleeping pills. This has been going on for a month now off and on. And today as I prepared for work, he came in convinced it was Saturday--I had to tell him 3 times and finally show him the date on the TV. He is a big man, overweight/Diabetic/heart issues/bad circ im legs/begining Althymers and diamentia (Excuse the spelling). I believe this is a sign of progression. Please let me know if my gut is telling the truth here?
I forget what day it is sometimes, but usually don't have to be reminded twice. That does tell you that something could be going on. I wish you could get him to take off some of the weight and become more active to get his circulation going better. I know there is only so much you can do, though.
With the elders they nap so much that when they wake up from the nap they think they had slept in their recliner over-night. It's not a big deal for someone who is retired and depends on others to take them to doctor appointments, etc. But too much napping will make it hard to sleep at night. I know it is hard to keep an elder busy during the afternoons.
There is a item that is similar to a clock but it has the days of the week on it instead. I heard it is good to have for those who do tend to forget what day it is. I plan to get one for my Dad.
I agree with Writervicki who posted above, anti-histamines do work as long as they are the drowsy type. I use a half of one at night to fall to sleep. But ask your Dad's doctor first before buying as some could interfere with other meds.