Alzheimer's Disease Can Interfere With Sleep

Among the many challenges for a person with Alzheimer's and his or her caregiver is that the disease can disturb sleep.

The National Sleep Foundation explains:

• People with Alzheimer's often wake during the night, and take more frequent naps. These can be early warning sign of Alzheimer's, even before memory loss.
• A caregiver should strive to encourage physical activity and staying busy during the day, to promote better nighttime sleep.
• Before trying medication to help with sleep, make it a point to avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol; maintain a consistent schedule for sleeping, waking and eating; and get natural sunlight exposure and exercise.