While caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer's disease can be rewarding, it can also prove very challenging. Confusion, disorientation, agitation, wandering and problems with sleep are common occurrences. Those who decide to try non-prescription methods of dealing with the symptoms of Alzheimer's do have options. Behavioral problems can often indicate a serious underlying disorder, such as infection or pain, and evaluation by a physician is necessary.
Sleep Changes
People with Alzheimer's disease may awaken often at night and stay awake for long periods. While awake, they may wander, call out and disrupt others. Restlessness and agitation may occur in the evening, a behavior known as "sundowning," according to the Alzheimer's Association. Patients may feel tired and sleep during the day, and then stay awake at night.
Recommendations by the Alzheimer's Association for non-drug treatment of sleep disturbances include avoidance of alcohol, caffeine and nicotine; consistent times for going to bed and waking up; exposure to morning sunlight; regular exercise early in the day; a comfortable bedroom temperature; keeping pain under control; discouraging television when awake at night; providing nightlights; and reducing daytime napping.
Wandering
Many people with Alzheimer's disease wander, and some become lost. Often, they may be searching for someone or something from their past, or attempting to go to a job they once held. Wandering can be very dangerous. Wandering often results from a combination of restlessness and confusion, Helpguide.org explains.
Restless behavior and pacing should be channeled into productive activities, such as folding towels or other simple chores. Daily supervised walks or other exercise can reduce restlessness, advises Helpguide. Installation of deadbolt or slide bolt locks is recommended, although a patient must never be left alone without supervision.
Caregivers should always have a recent photo of the patient's face in case a police search is required, and the patient should wear a MedicAlert bracelet, recommends the Alzheimer's Association.
Agitation
Those with Alzheimer's may periodically become anxious, overly focused on certain details, emotionally upset and agitated. Changes in routine, moving to a new home, delusions, discomfort, fatigue, illness and fear can cause agitation.
Commonly, discomfort from untreated pain, a full bladder, constipation, hunger, thirst or an illness such as a urinary tract infection are the cause of agitation, and resolving these issues will often calm the patient.
Experts recommend maintaining a calm and quiet environment, sticking to a simple and consistent schedule, developing soothing rituals and ensuring adequate rest, notes the Alzheimer's Association.
Calming music and interaction with pets can prevent agitation, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends. Experts advise against arguing about what is real, raising the voice or becoming upset in response to an agitated patient, reports Helpguide.
