Dementia can disrupt sleep patterns and cause difficulties in falling asleep or staying asleep. It can lead to fragmented sleep, daytime sleepiness, and restlessness at night. Sleep-related movement disorders, sleep-disordered breathing, and excessive daytime sleepiness are common sleep-related issues associated with dementia. Managing these sleep disturbances in individuals with dementia involves establishing a routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and addressing underlying medical conditions. There are products that can help too. So, what is the best sleep aid for dementia patients? Check them out in our guide below.
At Complete Care Shop, we have an extensive range of products that are designed to help people living with dementia in their everyday lives. Whether it’s during the night or day, there are daily living aids, bedroom aids and more that are designed to help in any way possible. Here’s a list of the best sleep aids for dementia patients:
When considering pillows for dementia patients, it's important to prioritise their comfort, safety, and individual needs. All of these factors are important in ensuring a quiet and restful night of sleep. Here are a few considerations when picking pillows:
Choose pillows that provide proper support for the neck and head, like the NRS Healthcare Batwing Pillow. Memory foam or orthopaedic pillows can help maintain alignment and reduce discomfort too. In terms of adjustability, you should aim for pillows with adjustable firmness or loft, like the Batwing. This allows customisation to accommodate individual preferences and optimise comfort.
It’s also important to keep safety in mind by avoiding pillows that are too large or firm. These can pose a suffocation risk so ensure that the chosen pillow does not obstruct the airway or cause discomfort.
A bed wedge can be beneficial for dementia patients by providing comfort and support while in bed. Pillows are, obviously, key for providing comfort but wedges can be hugely beneficial too. Here’s how:
Wedges can assist in maintaining proper body alignment and positioning while sleeping. They can be placed behind the back or under the legs to provide support and help relieve pressure on specific areas of the body. In bed, wedge pillows can be used to elevate the upper body, reducing the risk of acid reflux, snoring, or breathing difficulties. This inclined position can also make it easier for caregivers to provide assistance or for individuals to see their surroundings. Leg raisers are also beneficial for comfort while alleviating pressure and strain in the lower back.
Wedges can also enhance overall comfort for individuals with dementia, especially if they experience restlessness, discomfort, or difficulty finding a comfortable position. The additional support and cushioning from wedges can contribute to a more relaxed and restful state.
Specialised beds for dementia patients are designed to address the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals with dementia, focusing on comfort, positioning and safety. Here are some features commonly found in beds for dementia patients:
At Complete Care Shop, we have a number of different beds and mattresses available that provide all kinds of beneficial features. We have low-height profiling beds that provide easy access and a frame that moves to reduce strain on specific parts of the body.
We also have ultra-low profile beds that drastically reduce the risk of falling and injury through the night.
There are a number of other products at Complete Care Shop that are ideal for providing comfort, support and safety for people living with dementia. Bed rails, for instance, provide a block and support to prevent falls during the night. These can also be used as a grip to get into bed for people who may also struggle with mobility issues.
For some individuals, washable bed pads can be beneficial too to soak up any leaks or spillages through the night. We have disposable bed pads in our incontinence aids range too for easy cleaning.
Whatever type of product you think you need to support yourself or a loved one with dementia, you’re able to find it at Complete Care Shop.
When it comes to providing high-quality, professional-level care for people who need it, Complete Care Shop excels. We’re passionate about helping people gain their independence back, and offering support and safety for everybody too.
This is why we offer such an extensive range of daily living aids, bedroom aids, bathroom aids and much more – to help individuals with dementia but also anybody living with other conditions.
We have an excellent help and advice service to give you guidance and support. However, you can also contact us if you have any questions or queries about our products.
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