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Alzheimer`s Disease/Sleeping patterns of Alzheimer's pateints

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Expert: - 12/13/2011


Question
Is sleeping both day and night a sign of late stage Alzheimer's?

Answer
Hello Robin:  When a person has AD, they will usually tend to sleep for longer and longer periods of time as the disease progresses, so it's not unusual for them to be sleeping both day and night.  This would likely indicate the disease has progressed to the later stages and the body organs are beginning to slow down their functions.  If this is a sudden change for the person, it could indicate an infection of some type (often urinary tract), or possibly a stroke in the brain. If this is not a sudden change, then it is most likely a progression of the AD.
If this were my loved one, I would make every effort to assure his/her comfort regardless of whether he/she is asleep or awake.  Be sure to turn them every two hours to prevent skin breakdown; gently massage arms, legs and feet with lotion; aromatherapy if they have a favorite scent; play their favorite music off and on throughout the day; and speak lovingly to them as you greet them with a smile when you awaken them.  I would offer favorite food and drinks at every opportunity, and if they are willing and able to get up, then assist them with that.  
I wish you luck as you continue to care for your loved one.  Cindy  

Alzheimer`s Disease

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Cindy Keith, RN, BS, Certified Dementia Practitioner

Expertise

As a nurse and dementia consultant, I can answer most questions on all types of dementia. If I cannot answer your question, I will attempt to find someone who can. My passion is to help caregivers of people with dementia, which in turn helps all those wonderful elders with dementia live better lives. When caregivers are better educated, they are able to better care for themselves and their loved ones, so education is key to decreased stress levels and healthier, happier families.

Experience

I have worked as a nurse in various disciplines of nursing for over 20 years, most of which was with the elderly. I was a health care coordinator in a dementia dedicated assisted living facility for 4 years before I started my own business (M.I.N.D. in Memory Care) as a dementia consultant six years ago. As a dementia consultant, I help families nationwide through phone conference calls as they struggle to care for their loved ones with dementia.

Organizations
Alzheimer's Foundation of America Geriatric Interest Network Sigma Theta Tau International

Publications
Published "Love, Laughter, & Mayhem - Caregiver Survival Manual For Living With A Person With Dementia" which is a collection of stories about people with dementia I have known, loved and worked with. Every story has a lesson to teach and this book gently teaches family caregivers lessons about how to better care for their loved one, as well as themselves during their caregiving journey. Published "Love, Laughter, & Mayhem In Eldercare Facilities: The Master Key For Dementia Training" Created "Bringing Nurturing To Memory Care" staff dementia training video Created Ebook: "Hair Stylist's Helpful Tips For Working With People With Alzheimer's & Other Dementias"

Education/Credentials
Registered Nurse with Bachelor's degree in Nursing; Certified Dementia Practitioner; Author of 2 books and an ebook

Awards and Honors
Sigma Theta Tau National Honor Society of Nursing

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