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.