Better Sleep for Dementia Care: A Practical Guide

January 09, 2025 Paul Souliac

Sleep problems are common for people with dementia, affecting up to 70% of patients. These issues can be challenging for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. But don't worry - there are ways to help your loved one get better rest. Let's explore some practical tips to improve sleep for those with dementia.

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By Honeydew Sleep

Why Sleep Matters for Dementia Patients

Getting good sleep is crucial for everyone, but it's especially important for people with dementia. Quality sleep can help:

Reduce confusion and agitation
Improve mood and behavior
Boost cognitive function
Enhance overall quality of life

Unfortunately, dementia can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. This often leads to sleeping too much during the day and being awake at night. Let's look at some ways to tackle this problem.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

The bedroom plays a big role in how well someone sleeps. Here are some tips to make the sleeping area more comfortable:

Keep it Dark and Quiet

Use blackout curtains or shades to block out light. This helps signal to the brain that it's time to sleep. If outside noise is an issue, try using a white noise machine or fan to create a soothing background sound.

Set the Right Temperature

A cool room promotes better sleep. Aim for a temperature between 60-67°F (15-19°C). Make sure the person has cozy blankets to stay warm if needed.

Choose Comfortable Bedding

The right pillow can make a world of difference. Our Scrumptious Side Pillow is designed to provide perfect support for side sleepers, which many older adults prefer. It can help reduce neck pain and promote better alignment for more restful sleep.

Establishing a Bedtime Routine

A consistent routine can help signal to the body that it's time to wind down. Try these steps:

Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time
Dim the lights an hour before bed
Avoid screens (TV, phones, tablets) for at least an hour before sleep
Engage in calming activities like reading or listening to soft music
Help the person use the bathroom before bed to reduce nighttime awakenings

Daytime Habits for Better Sleep

What happens during the day can greatly affect nighttime sleep. Here are some tips:

Get Some Sunlight

Exposure to natural light helps regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle. Try to get outside for at least 30 minutes each day, preferably in the morning.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. Encourage light exercise or activities during the day, but avoid anything too strenuous close to bedtime.

Watch the Diet

Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the afternoon and evening. A light snack before bed can help prevent hunger-related wake-ups, but avoid heavy meals close to bedtime.

Discover More About The Connection Between Diet and Sleep Quality

Dealing with Nighttime Wandering

Many people with dementia experience "sundowning" - increased confusion and agitation in the late afternoon and evening. This can lead to nighttime wandering, which is both disruptive and potentially dangerous. Here are some strategies to help:

Use door alarms or motion sensors to alert you if the person gets up
Place a gate across the bedroom doorway
Put away items that might encourage the person to "go to work" or "go home"
Use nightlights to help prevent falls if the person does get up

When to Seek Help

If sleep problems persist despite trying these strategies, it's time to talk to a doctor. They can check for underlying health issues that might be affecting sleep and discuss other treatment options if needed.

Discover More About Us - Honeydew Sleep

Welcome to Honeydew Sleep, a family-operated business with a heartfelt mission to revolutionize the way the world sleeps. With over 50 years of collective experience in the sleep industry, we've witnessed firsthand the profound impact that the right pillow can have. Imagine starting every day feeling rejuvenated, pain-free, and bursting with energy — this is the dream we offer at Honeydew.

Craftsmanship and Passion in Every Pillow

Our pillows aren’t just made; they’re crafted with precision, care, and genuine passion. From the luxurious fabrics to the innovative design, every component of our pillows is selected for its superior quality and ability to deliver an exceptional sleep experience. The attention to detail extends from the carefully selected fill materials to each stitch and seam, ensuring that every product is a testament to our commitment and love for better sleep.

Why Choose Honeydew Sleep?

Buying a Honeydew pillow is more than a purchase—it's an investment in your health. A good night's sleep has the power to transform your day, boosting your energy levels, lifting your mood, and enhancing your overall quality of life. We at Honeydew Sleep want you to live at your absolute best:

Rediscover Vitality: Wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day with vigor.
Upgrade Your Comfort: Experience the ultimate comfort designed for your specific sleep needs.
Embrace Joyful Mornings: Let go of morning grogginess and embrace a lifestyle filled with enthusiasm.

We are proud of our products and confident that you will cherish your Honeydew pillow just as much as we enjoy crafting them. Become a part of our family and embrace a life of energy, happiness, and impeccable comfort. Start transforming your life, one night at a time.

Join us on our mission: Improve lives, enhance sleep, and help everyone rediscover their most vibrant, energetic, and joyous selves. You deserve it.

Our Best Pillow - Honeydew Sleep

Description (The Scrumptious Side Pillow):

Experience unparalleled comfort with our unique Scrumptious Side Pillow, specially designed to cradle your neck and shoulders perfectly. Its distinctive curve aligns your spine while you rest, providing both comfort and support. The proprietary fill not only offers a luxurious feel but also excels in alleviating neck and shoulder discomfort.

Money Back Guarantee

You can try our pillow risk-free! We proudly offer a 60-night money-back guarantee on all purchases.

Dimensions & Specifications

Our pillows are as exceptional in size as they are in comfort. Designed deliberately with our unique fill, these pillows come in specific dimensions and weights to optimize your sleep quality:

Queen Size: Approximately 27" x 15"
King Size: Approximately 30" x 17"

Each box includes one Scrumptious Side Pillow (note: pillowcase sold separately).

Care Instructions

Caring for your pillow is easy:

Use a machine washable (and tumble dry) cover.
Remove the fill before washing.
Utilize the hidden zipper on the back for easy maintenance.

To enhance the pillow's hygiene and feel, consider using our high-quality pillowcases, which are not only easy to wash and dry but also make your pillow more breathable and incredibly soft.