Neurológia pre prax 4/2014
Sleep disturbances and sundowning in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
Sleep disturbances and sleep cycle distorsions are relatively common complications of dementia with a negative impact on both the patient’s and his caregiver’s state. Often their occurrence contributes to early institutionalization and may complicate provided care in nursing homes. Sleep disturbances in various neurodegenerative disorders, sleep cycle distorsions and sundowning and their impact on caregivers are discussed. The management is complex, based on non-pharmacological interventions and targeted pharmacotherapy.
Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, insomnia, sleep cycle, sundowning, non-pharmacological interventions.
