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Two hidden dementia signs appear at night
14 Feb
Summary
- Walking at night and sleep difficulty are key dementia signs.
- Restlessness and searching behaviors are common dementia symptoms.
- Poor sleep can worsen dementia symptoms over time.
Dementia's impact extends to nighttime, with experts identifying two key symptoms that emerge as the condition progresses. These include increased walking during the night and pronounced difficulty sleeping. Such sleep disturbances are quite common in older adults, and especially prevalent in individuals living with dementia.
The Alzheimer's Society notes that restlessness is a frequent characteristic, sometimes leading to repetitive walking or attempts to leave the home. Disruptions to the body clock and the physical brain changes associated with dementia contribute to altered sleep patterns. This can result in sleeping more during the day and struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep at night.
When sleep is consistently poor, it can unfortunately worsen other dementia symptoms over time. The charity suggests practical measures to help those with dementia sleep better, such as establishing a regular bedtime routine and limiting daytime naps or stimulating substances like caffeine and alcohol. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, consulting a GP is advised.
