We use a portable lift to help with daily needs.
Over the last few months, I’ve noticed that he doesn’t sleep much during the day time and ends up being more confused than normal. On the 3rd or 4th day following, he’ll basically sleep all day long and all that night. The next day, he’s much more alert and with it. This seems to be a very deep sleep.
Has anyone else noticed that pattern, and have any theories about it?
so….we use a sit/stand lift to get him up and down. We have been doing that for over a year now.
Do you have Hospice coming in to help? If not it might be a good idea you will get more support, a bit more help and a Nurse will come and check him every week. More often if needed.
Each person with dementia is different as the dementia can effect different parts of the brain in different people.
It might be a good idea to try to get him on a "normal" sleep pattern. You can try doing that by keeping him as active and engaged as possible during the day and following a good before bed practice. No TV or electronics about 30 minutes before bed (wish I would do as I say!) and begin lower lighting about that time as well. If it is still brighter out closing blinds might also help.
If that does not work and the caregiver is ok with his sleep pattern I would not worry about it.
There is a great pamphlet that you can read on line called Crossing the Creek and it explains a lot about the increased sleeping and other signs of decline and signs that End of Life is closer