He is still walking with a walker, she is afraid that he will fall and break his hip. She is his only caregiver, she is doing everything herself. She is barely sleeping, and doesnt feel good herself with fybromiagia/cronic fatigue. I am seeking your advice. What can she do?
In the meantime a set schedule has really helped in our case, if Dad goes to bed between 8-9:00 he sleeps for longer hours, actually right now he sleeps through the night. I know it sounds strange but if he naps in the day I don't let him nap for more than 15 minutes. He has no caffeine after 2pm, no liquids after 5pm( then he doesn't have to get up to pee) a quiet non stimulating activity about an hour before bed ( puzzles, reading, drawing etc) Lately with the weather change keeping his room the same temperature has been key, he would wake up because he was cold.
Also when he does wake up sometimes I can walk him out to the couch, slowly turn lights down, not engage him in conversation, and just sit until he falls back asleep, then I cover him with a blanket and go back to bed myself.
If you and your love one sleep better you will both be in a better mood the next day. Admittedly putting the schedule in effect was difficult, but once the routine was set it has really helped.
Sorry to hear what your Mom is going thru. My Mom has Alzheimers also, but knock on wood she sleeps thru the night so far. Although her doctor prescribed Ambien should she not sleep well. Has the doctor been told he doesn't sleep thru the night? He may need to be given something to sleep. Call his doctor and let him know what is going on. I am pretty sure he will give him something to sleep. I am also posting here because my Mother cannot get any type of home health care and I am at my wits end. I am sick myself and have to be her caregiver which I don't mind, but I thought I would never say, it does take a toll on you. I hate this Monster disease, thats what I call it, and there is very little resources to help us out with this.
Hope all works out. There are so many of us out there.
See All Answers