Symptom 10. Sleep Disturbances
Finally, one symptom of vascular dementia that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life is sleep disturbances. This can include insomnia, frequent waking during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, or even changes in sleep patterns, such as staying up late and sleeping during the day.
Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep can lead to feelings of fatigue during the day, impacting the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks or engage in social activities. Frequent nighttime waking can disrupt their sleep cycle, leading to reduced sleep quality and quantity.
Excessive daytime sleepiness, on the other hand, can interfere with their daily routine. They may feel the need to nap frequently or struggle to stay awake during the day. This can limit their active hours and restrict their participation in daytime activities.
Changes in sleep patterns can also disrupt their routine and their caregivers’ routines. If they stay awake late into the night and sleep during the day, it can lead to isolation and decreased social interaction. (10)
