DOES ALZHEIMER'S AFFECT SLEEP
What You Should Know
Sleep plays a critical role in memory, cognitive performance, and overall health. But for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease—a progressive neurodegenerative condition that impacts memory and behavior—sleep can become increasingly disrupted. This has profound effects not just on the person with Alzheimer’s but also their caregivers and loved ones.
Let’s take a closer look at how Alzheimer’s affects sleep, why it happens, what symptoms to look for, and most importantly—what you can do to improve sleep for someone living with the disease.
Note that this article does not constitute medical advice. It is written for information only, based on published work and research, and should not be used in lieu of a medical consultation. Consult a medical professional with questions and prior to starting treatment or lifestyle changes.
Table of Contents
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a group of brain disorders, that cause memory loss and cognitive decline. It usually affects people over the age of 65, although early-onset Alzheimer’s can appear earlier.
Over time, Alzheimer’s interferes with thinking, reasoning, behavior, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. As the disease progresses, sleep disturbances often become more noticeable—and more difficult to manage.
Does Alzheimer’s Affect Sleep?
Yes—Alzheimer’s significantly affects sleep. In fact, sleep disruptions are among the most common and distressing symptoms for patients and caregivers alike.
Studies show that up to 45% of individuals with Alzheimer’s experience serious sleep disturbances, including trouble falling asleep, waking up frequently at night, and increased daytime napping. In late stages, sleep-wake cycles can become completely reversed.
Unfortunately, the way that Alzheimer’s affects sleep can be far-reaching and detrimental to the patient, his/her partner, and/or caretaker.
Why Does Alzheimer’s Affect Sleep?
To understand why Alzheimer’s affects sleep, it helps to look at what happens in the brain.
1. Damage to the Sleep-Wake Regulation Center
Alzheimer’s damages parts of the brain responsible for controlling circadian rhythms—the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. This includes the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the hypothalamus, and has a direct impact on the patient’s natural ability to follow his/her natural sleep / wake cycle.
2. Melatonin Production Declines
Melatonin is a hormone that signals to the body that it is time to sleep. Alzheimer’s can disrupt melatonin production and release, leading to a confused sense of day and night and making it harder to fall asleep at night.
3. Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms
Anxiety, agitation, confusion, and hallucinations—common in Alzheimer’s—can also contribute to nighttime wakefulness and the inability to stay asleep for longer periods of time.
4. Medical and Physical Discomfort
Alzheimer’s disease typically affect older patients, at an age where a myriad of other ailments appear. Chronic pain, incontinence, and other age-related health issues can compound sleep disturbances, making it even harder to fall and stay asleep.
Common Sleep Issues in People With Alzheimer’s
When looking at how Alzheimer’s affects sleep, it is important to recognize the specific types of sleep problems individuals may experience.
1. Sundowning
“Sundowning” refers to increased confusion and agitation that typically occurs in the late afternoon and evening. It’s a hallmark sleep-related symptom of Alzheimer’s and often leads to nighttime wandering or distress.
2. Frequent Night Wakings
Alzheimer’s patients may wake up many times during the night and struggle to fall back asleep. These fragmented sleep patterns reduce restorative deep sleep and are usually caused by a confusion in the natural circadian cycle and decreased melatonin production.
3. Reversed Sleep Cycle
Some people with Alzheimer’s end up staying awake at night and sleeping more during the day, leading to isolation and increased caregiver burden.
4. Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
Due to poor quality nighttime sleep, many individuals with Alzheimer’s feel excessively tired or drowsy during the day, which further imbalances their sleep / wake cycle.
5. Restless Leg Syndrome and Sleep Apnea
These common sleep disorders in older adults may be more difficult to detect in someone with cognitive impairment but can further disrupt sleep. If sleep apnea is a problem, read this article to see how an adjustable bed can make a difference.
How Poor Sleep Impacts Alzheimer’s Progression
Interestingly, the relationship between Alzheimer’s and sleep is bidirectional. Not only does Alzheimer’s affect sleep—but poor sleep may also accelerate the progression of the disease.
1. Increased Amyloid Plaque Buildup
Research shows that sleep helps flush toxins from the brain, including beta-amyloid—the sticky protein that builds up in Alzheimer’s. Sleep deprivation may increase these plaques.
2. Worsened Memory and Cognitive Decline
Sleep is vital for memory consolidation. Ongoing sleep disruptions can impair memory even further and speed up cognitive decline.
3. Greater Risk of Depression and Irritability
Lack of sleep contributes to mood disorders, which are already common in Alzheimer’s patients.
Sleep Tips for Alzheimer’s Patients
Managing sleep in someone with Alzheimer’s requires patience, structure, and the right sleep environment. These strategies may help, but do not replace the advice of a medical professional:
1. Stick to a Consistent Daily Routine
A regular schedule helps reinforce circadian rhythms. Try to keep wake-up and bedtime consistent—even on weekends.
2. Increase Daylight Exposure
Natural light exposure during the day helps regulate melatonin. Morning walks or sitting by a bright window can improve nighttime sleep.
3. Limit Daytime Naps
Short naps (under 30 minutes) are fine, but long or frequent naps can disrupt sleep at night.
4. Encourage Physical Activity
Gentle exercise like stretching, walking, or chair yoga can promote better sleep. Read here how long before sleep you should exercise.
5. Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
A warm bath, soft music, or reading aloud can signal it’s time to wind down. Avoid stimulation late in the day. This bedtime routine schedule for adults can help.
6. Minimize Stimulants
Limit caffeine, alcohol, and large meals in the evening. Here’s what not to eat before bed.
7. Use Nightlights and Reduce Shadows
Low lighting at night can prevent confusion without interfering with melatonin production.
8. Consider Melatonin Supplements (with Doctor Approval)
Some studies suggest melatonin may improve sleep in people with dementia, but it should be used under medical supervision and after being prescribed by your doctor.
Choosing the Right Mattress for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
A comfortable and supportive sleep surface can make a significant difference for someone with Alzheimer’s. Here’s what to look for in a mattress:
1. Pressure Relief
Older adults are at higher risk for pressure sores. Look for memory foam or latex mattresses that distribute weight evenly.
2. Motion Isolation
If the person gets in and out of bed frequently, a mattress with strong motion isolation can help their partner sleep better by minimizing the transfer of motion to the other side of the bed.
3. Ease of Transfer
For those with limited mobility, a medium-profile mattress that isn’t too soft or too high off the ground makes it easier to get in and out of bed safely.
4. Cooling Properties
Since some Alzheimer’s medications affect body temperature regulation, a cooling mattress can prevent night sweats and overheating.
5. Washable Mattress Protector
Spills and incontinence are common, so pairing the mattress with a waterproof, breathable mattress protector is a good idea.
When to Talk to a Doctor
If sleep issues are persistent or severe, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Sleep medications can be risky for people with dementia, but other treatments—like managing pain, sleep apnea, or behavioral symptoms—can help.
A doctor may also evaluate for:
Depression or anxiety
Medication side effects and combination risks
Sleep disorders like restless legs syndrome or REM sleep behavior disorder
Does Alzheimer's Affect Sleep - Final Thoughts
So, does Alzheimer’s affect sleep? Absolutely. And it can take a toll on both the individual and their caregivers. But understanding why it happens—and knowing how to respond—can go a long way in easing the stress that comes with sleep disruption.
Whether it is choosing a pressure-relieving mattress, sticking to a calming routine, or increasing natural light exposure, small changes can bring meaningful relief. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, know that you are not alone—and that better sleep is possible, even in the face of cognitive decline.
For more support, explore our expert-backed resources on sleep wellness, aging, and bedding products tailored for memory care.
References
- National Library of Medicine. (2018). Sleep deprivation increases Alzheimer’s protein. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/sleep-deprivation-increases-alzheimers-protein
- National Library of Medicine. (2022). Evaluation of suprachiasmatic nucleus in Alzheimer’s disease with non-invasive magnetic resonance methods. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8820719/
- National Library of Medicine. (2024). The association between sleep and Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39193464/
- National Library of Medicine. (2022). Research advances in the study of sleep disorders, circadian rhythm disturbances and Alzheimer’s disease. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9428322/
- Alzheimer’s Society. (2021). Sundowning and dementia. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/sundowning
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Alzheimer’s affects brain regions that regulate circadian rhythms, often leading to disrupted sleep patterns, increased night waking, and daytime sleepiness.
Yes, insomnia and fragmented sleep are common in people with Alzheimer’s, especially in the middle to later stages of the disease.
Good sleep hygiene may help flush beta-amyloid from the brain and potentially slow cognitive decline, although it is not a cure.
A quiet, cool, low-lit room with minimal noise and a supportive mattress is ideal. Consistent routines and a sense of safety are also key.
More Sleep Resources
How does Alzheimer’s affect sleep patterns?
Alzheimer’s affects brain regions that regulate circadian rhythms, often leading to disrupted sleep patterns, increased night waking, and daytime sleepiness.
Is insomnia a symptom of Alzheimer’s?
Yes, insomnia and fragmented sleep are common in people with Alzheimer’s, especially in the middle to later stages of the disease.
Can better sleep slow down Alzheimer’s?
Good sleep hygiene may help flush beta-amyloid from the brain and potentially slow cognitive decline, although it is not a cure.
What’s the best sleep environment for someone with Alzheimer’s?
A quiet, cool, low-lit room with minimal noise and a supportive mattress is ideal. Consistent routines and a sense of safety are also key.
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Laura Georgieff
Laura is a mother of three who did not sleep through the night for the first 5.5 years of her kids' lives. She is passionate about sleep quality and loves sharing her experience and knowledge of all thing bedding! It is her mission to help you make the best decisions when it comes to sleep and help you get the best deal on the market!
