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My elderly parent won't sleep at night. What do I do?

Asked by Lady56  |  Jul 21, 2010

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Carol Bradley Bursack, Oct 5, 2010

Over the span of two decades author, columnist and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Because of this experience, Bradley Bursack created a portable support group, the book "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories."

 

Has your parent been diagnosed with Alzheimer's? This is common with the disease. Either way, it's time for an appointment with the doctor. He or she may be able to help with advice and/or medication changes.
Good luck,
Carol

 
 

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anonymous13319

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Oct 5, 2010

This is really common among seniors. They are not active enough during the day to be tired at night - or often they nap during the day, then find it hard to sleep.
I am not a big fan of sedatives - they are addictive and can have side effects such as hallucinations.
For my Mom, I try to keep her active during the day and ask her to try and avoid naps. At night she drinks warm milk or hot chocolate. If your parent can have this, a small glass of red wine works well too (ask his/her doctor). I asked Mom to turn off the TV and play soft music until she goes to sleep. Some radios come with timers that turn off after so many hours. Reading something uplifting works too. If your parent is active, have them exercise or do as much as they can to tire themselves out before bedtime.
It is sad that going to sleep has to be such a chore as we age.

 
 

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Lady56

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Oct 13, 2010

Thank you for answering me. My mom can not be active at this point. I have her under hospice care. The medical is whats needed. As long as she is able to stay with me in my home I am thankful. Thanks again, Lynne

 
 

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