My 95 year old mother with Alzheimer's is up all night talking to herself and then sleeps all day. Until recently, mom slept fitfully through the night. I would prefer not to medicate her, if possible. Mom continues to live at home with 24-hour care. I live nearby. So this change in her sleep pattern does not affect my sleep. Her aide is not complaining. So, should I even be that concerned?
The aide is likely being paid night or day, so the care is still necessary. Sometimes a snack whenever your mother wakes up may help her get back to sleep, so you could suggest that to the aide. Some people find that melatonin helps, but it won't help everyone.
Aging people, in general, often have a harder time sleeping. Often it's pain from arthritis or other issues that interfere. So, trying to make a person with AD adhere to younger sleep patterns may not be realistic. I'm glad that you have someone to be with your mom so that you can sleep.
Take care,
Carol
Also at night, avoid bright lighting. I put a lamp beside her bed with a 15 watt bulb, which provides sufficient lighting for her to use her bedside commode. Bright light is needed to avoid falls, but it can be a sleep deterrent ... So maybe try dimming lights or smaller wattage to provide sufficient lights in the areas she's in, especially in the evenings. Hope that helps you!! Blessings to you!!
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