Stage 6. Sleep Disruptions: The Elusive Rest
Sleep disruptions become increasingly common as dementia progresses to the middle stage. The person might face difficulties in maintaining a regular sleep pattern, leading to issues such as insomnia, frequent waking up during the night, or excessive sleeping during the day.
These sleep disturbances can stem from multiple factors. The person might feel increased restlessness or anxiety, making it harder to fall asleep. The loss of sense of time and disorientation can also contribute to irregular sleep patterns.
It’s also worth noting that certain medications used for managing dementia symptoms could impact sleep. Hence, if the individual is experiencing significant sleep disruptions, it would be worth discussing it with their healthcare provider.
Poor sleep quality can further exacerbate cognitive decline, mood swings, and other dementia symptoms. Therefore, maintaining good sleep hygiene and a regular sleep schedule can be beneficial in managing this symptom. (6)
