Help with restless, sleepless nights

Richard67 · September 16

At bedtime, my wife will sleep for about an hour then will become restless and repeatedly get up and down, then roam around the bedroom and upstairs all night like a zombie. She has moderate/late stage Alzheimers and takes risperidone (Risperdal) but doc is weaning her off and will replace with Geodon soon. She also takes Pristiq, an antidepressant. We share bed, and her activity keeps me awake. Can't do this any longer. Her doc won't prescribe a sleep aid. I saw someone here recommend Advil PM. Any advice welcome. Thanks.

tonyac2 · September 16

For what it’s worth, my DH has success with Seroquel and a 10 mg THC gummy. I also use daytime gummies to help with anxiety and agitation. Just got him a cannabis medical card so we can save money on taxes.

Timmyd · September 16

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/74113/help-with-restless-sleepless-nights

The only way I can continuing providing care for DW at home is if I am healthy and well rested. Not sleeping at night would send me over the edge. I do not mean to sound insensitive. If you have reached the point where you share "Can't do this any longer" and her doctor is not willing to work with you on medication adjustments intended to improve sleep, then in your situation, I would be looking for a different doctor.

Richard67 · 1:01AM

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/253719#Comment_253719

Thanks. I think we will give gummies a try.

Richard67 · 1:05AM

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/253727#Comment_253727

Thanks for your candor. Yes, we have a new doctor and hopefully the transition to Geodon will help.

SDianeL · 3:39AM

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/253736#Comment_253736

it may take a few weeks for the medication to work. Also note that a Geriatric Psychiatrist is the best type of doctor to regulate medications. I learned that on this forum. Hope the doctor finds the right medication and dose. Do you have help during the day so you can rest?

Help with restless, sleepless nights

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