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Sleep Problems in Alzheimer's and Other Dementias

Some people with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia may have trouble sleeping at night. To combat this problem:

  • Keep the person awake and active during the day. Discourage napping unless doing so causes more problems.
  • Late afternoon exercise may be helpful.
  • Offer warm milk or caffeine-free herbal tea before bedtime.
  • If it seems to relax the person, give him or her a bath close to bedtime.

For more information on how to improve sleeping patterns, see the topic Sleep Problems, Age 12 and Older.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Peter J. Whitehouse, MD - Neurology
Last Revised June 23, 2011

Last Revised: June 23, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Peter J. Whitehouse, MD - Neurology

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