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k122857 Asked December 2009

What medication helps Alzheimer's patients to sleep through the night?

Why do Alzheimer's Disease patients wander more at night?

EXPERT Carol Bradley Bursack, CDSGF Dec 2009
The night wandering is called Sundowning. It's thought that the end of the day signifies something to them - they must do something but don't know what (go home from work?). It's very common and, of course, frustrating for the caregiver.

It sounds like a visit to the doctor is in order. There are medications that can help calm anxiety. Given in light doses - you may have to try several - they can help the agitation and anxiety without too many side effects. Good luck. It may take some trial and error.
Carol

k122857 Dec 2009
Thank you Carol, I agree a visit to the Dr is in order. I am having trouble getting her there. She refuses to go or even get ready to go. I do have homehealth coming and at end of month they are going to start sending a psych nurse for her weekly visits maybe they can do something, The nurse that comes now said she would have to go to Dr, before he would call anything in, not so sure of that. Will see what happens or I will have to force her in the car in her PJ's, lol Thanks again.

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Bayamesa Dec 2009
Try a cup of hot/warm Chamomille Tea or Linden Tea (a little tea bag per cup) with a little bit of sugar or sugar substitute. It is so soothing and relaxing. I give it to my 93 year old mom who suffers from dimentia before she goes to bed at night whenever I see that she is agitated. It calms her down and makes her sleep. I also have a cup of the tea !

hapfra Dec 2009
Hi~I totally agree with the reply from Carol-you might want to learn more about sundowning and other behaviors that are common to Alzheimer's-

I do strongly reccommed your participation for support with your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association; or if this is not possible they have a 24/7 hotline-and that number is 1-800-272-3900.

Inasmuch as there is no cure for AD, at the present time, the next best thing we call all do is to become knowledgeable ..In this way, we will have a better understanding. There are many websites online that can provide you with additional information as well~however agingcare is amongst the tops.

Good Luck!

snowbound Dec 2009
Very helpful information. I might add that my dad was getting benefits from activan at night and recently has been switched to Resperdol sp? We'll see if this helps him at night and also during dialysis.

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