How do I help my dad with sleep and sundowning

jacksonll8

How do I help get my dad back in the right sleep pattern when he is sundowning. All week he is has been going to be at 10 pm, and waking up anywhere between 1230 and 430. He is not getting good sleep or quality sleep as far as that goes. He has vascular dementia along with a slew of other health issues.

SusanB-dil

Hi jacksonll8 - Welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

Do tell his doc. Ask about melatonin before trying that. (you can't always mix meds, even if over-counter). MIL had something mild for sleep and that helped. She also has vasc and alz, and her doc prescribed it. Sorry, I don't remember what it was, because she is beyond that, now.

Sorry you are dealing with 'this'.

April23

My dad takes 3mg of Melatonin at bedtime, then if he wakes up before 3:00 am he can be given another 3mg. This is what his doc recommended and it helped. My dad takes virtually no other meds though. But something to discuss with your dr. to see if it’s worth trying, it doesn’t work for everyone.

Grenah

Melatonin frequently does not work and on occasion has made it worse. With dementia the circadian cycle is off and can be hard to get back on track. The doctor may have another suggestion.

Anonymousjpl123

definitely see a geriatric psychiatrist or neurologist if you can. Or even a primary care doctor - any professional familiar with dementia. My mom went to the memory center at a major hospital and they helped so much. There are a lot of meds that can help, and a lot that really don’t work with dementia. Best to hear from doctor. Call the hotline (on this website) and they can refer someone if needed.

AmandaF

I was advised to get them out in the sunlight and increase daytime exercise, as much as is practicable anyway. Melatonin helps some people, and the doctor might have ideas for other medications. Good luck, I know it’s hard.