How to Calm Dementia Patients at Night?

By addressing unique triggers and creating a calm environment, caregivers can help improve a person’s comfort, safety, and quality of life.

How to Calm Dementia Patients at Night?

Here are a few tips that will help you settle down dementia patients at night.

1. Start the Evening Routine Before Dusk:

Many caregivers notice that agitation begins in dementia patients as the sun goes down. To reduce the risk of fear and confusion, begin preparing for the evening in the late afternoon.

• Help them change into comfortable clothing before sunset.
• Offer a light meal and avoid caffeine or sugary snacks.
• Close the curtains and turn on indoor lights to reduce shadows, which can cause confusion.

Read More: How to Encourage Seniors with Dementia to Eat More

2. Create a Peaceful Environment:

To help them settle down, make sure there is nothing in their environment that feels hostile or unsafe. Excessive noise, clutter, or activity can overwhelm the brain perceiving it as a threat. So, creating a peaceful and quiet environment based on their needs and behavior can help keep them calm.

• Play soft, familiar music they enjoy.
• Keep the comfortable room temperature.
• Keep the home well-lit during the evening.
• Remove extra things from the room to avoid confusion.
• Place things they know and love, like photos or a favorite blanket.
• Offer a warm, soothing drink, such as herbal tea or milk, if their doctor approves.
• Reduce background noise from television or loud conversations. You can use a white noise machine.
• Use a dementia clock that shows day and night.

3. Offer Gentle Reassurance:

Due to increased vulnerability and reduced emotional safety, feeling secure becomes a primary need for dementia patients. This becomes even more important when they are already experiencing disorientation and confusion at night. Reassurance from loved ones or familiar caregivers can help ease their anxiety and provide comfort.

Next time a dementia patient is feeling restless at night, try this:

• Sit beside them and speak softly.
• Remind them you are there to help and that they are safe.
• Simple phrases like, “You’re okay, I’m right here with you,” can make a big difference.
• Some caregivers find it helpful to frame themselves as a friend, saying things like, “It’s your friend here. Let’s get comfortable together.”
• If they get up during the night, talk to them in a soft-spoken manner and use simple words to reassure them.

4. Engage in Simple Activities:

When dementia patients stay active during the day with light, familiar tasks, they often feel more relaxed and tired by evening. This can reduce nighttime restlessness and help them settle more easily. However, trying to start new activities at night when they are already feeling confused or anxious may not calm them and can sometimes make things worse.

How does it help?

• They prevent boredom during the day, which can lead to better sleep at night.
• They use up energy in a healthy way.
• They create a sense of purpose, which helps reduce stress.
• They support a steady daily routine, which helps the body prepare for rest at night.

You can involve them in simple tasks such as folding laundry, setting the table, watering plants, or reading a book, etc.

5. Try Massage & Scents:

Using scents like lavender, vanilla, and chamomile, and gentle massage in the evening can help dementia patients feel more relaxed. These scents can be used through essential oils, diffusers, or lightly scented lotions.

While some research suggests these methods may have calming effects, there is not enough evidence to fully support this claim.

Helping Families Through Dementia Care:

We understand the unique challenges of caring for your loved one with dementia. As their condition progresses, having the right support at home becomes essential. We provide personalized Alzheimer’s home care tailored to your loved one’s abilities, personality, and daily needs. Our trained caregivers specialize in meeting the physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s, helping them feel safe, comfortable, and supported every day.

Reach out for a free assessment today!

Fakiha

Fakiha is an experienced writer at ConsidraCare with an optimistic interest in life. She has a proactive approach to improving health and wellness for seniors. She offers well-researched and thoughtful information to help individuals make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones.