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Please check this website below in Mayo clinic about the sleep problem. Regards, Nina  ====================== Alzheimer's: Managing sleep problems Alzheimer's sleep problems affect both you and your loved one. Try these tips for getting both of you a good night's rest. When people with Alzheimer's can't sleep, they may wander through the house - waking caregivers and possibly endangering themselves. These sleep disturbances, and the caregiver exhaustion that so often accompanies them, are among the most common reasons people with Alzheimer's are placed in nursing homes. Sleep problems are common Many older adults have problems sleeping, but people with Alzheimer's have an even harder time. Alzheimer's may reverse their sleep-wake cycle, causing daytime drowsiness and nighttime restlessness. And these sleep disturbances often increase as Alzheimer's disease progresses. Eventually, people with Alzheimer's may nap off and on both day and night. Every hour may include periods of wakefulness and periods of light sleep. These naps replace the deep, restorative sleep most people enjoy at night. Coexisting conditions Some people with Alzheimer's have other health problems that affect their sleep. In many situations, these problems respond well to treatment. Sleep apnea. This disorder happens when throat muscles relax during sleep and obstruct airflow through the nose and throat. People with sleep apnea typically snore loudly, and their breathing periodically stops during sleep. It is very common in people over the age of 65. Restless legs syndrome. Occurring most often in middle-aged and older adults, this disorder consists of leg discomfort relieved only by moving the legs. Depression. Many people with Alzheimer's also suffer from depression. Sleep problems are common in both diseases. Treating the depression may improve quality of life for both you and your loved one.
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