Supporting a Peaceful Slumber for Your Loved One
Care Providers Gain Restful Nights Due to Improved Sleeping Habits
Struggling to sleep? Waking up frequently at night due to a full bladder or pain? Many individuals in need of care often face these sleep problems. Not only does poor sleep lead to daytime tiredness, but it also raises the risk of falls, according to the Center for Quality in Care (ZQP).
If your loved one has trouble sleeping for an extended period, it's essential to speak with a doctor about it. They may be able to pinpoint the root cause, addressing issues such as pain, nighttime urges, or breathing issues that interfere with falling or staying asleep.
As family members, you might be wondering, "What can we do to facilitate a restful night for our loved one?" Here are three effective strategies:
1. Introduce Sleep Rituals
An established nightly routine signals to the body that it's time for rest. Depending on the individual, these rituals may vary. Some may find comfort in reading a book, while others might prefer listening to calming music.
Warm foot baths, socks on a heater, or a cup of herbal tea with ingredients like lemon balm, lavender, passionflower, or hops can be part of this soothing routine. However, it's essential not to drink too much before bed, as it may lead to unwanted nighttime urges.
2. Create a Cozy Sleep Environment
External factors such as street noise or glaring TV lights can make it difficult to sleep. To improve the sleep environment, family members should consider the individual's preferences.
Earplugs, sleep masks, and darkness can help minimize disturbances. Good air circulation through the evening is also vital to avoid a stuffy room. A temperature between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius is ideal for a restful night's sleep.
When dealing with incontinence, superabsorbent materials can provide added comfort during the night.
3. Adjust the Daily Routine for Dementia
Individuals with dementia often face disruptions in their day-night rhythm, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and restlessness at night. It's essential to help them maintain a natural sleep cycle. This means exposing them to plenty of natural light during the day, engaging in light stretches or exercises in bed to aid in waking up, and only putting on pajamas when it's actually evening.
It's worth noting that complete darkness can confuse individuals with dementia. Rooms where they sleep should not be completely darkened, and a night light can help with orientation.
For those with dementia, a restful sleep environment is crucial for their overall well-being and sleep quality. By incorporating techniques like establishing calm environments, promoting sleep-conducive routines, designing dementia-friendly spaces, and managing sensory inputs, you can create the perfect sleep sanctuary for your loved one.
- In addition to the established nightly routine, playing calming music as part of the sleep ritual can further promote relaxation and facilitate a restful night for your loved one, benefiting their mental health and overall health and wellness.
- Moreover, it's essential to be mindful of the impact of scientific research on sleep patterns when caring for someone with dementia, as adjusting their daily routine to mimic natural day-night rhythms can help reduce confusion and ensure a peaceful slumber, thus improving their mental health and long-term health outcomes.
