title: Non-pharmacological interventions for managing dementia-related sleep problems within community dwelling pairs: A mixed-method approach.
abstract: Dementia-related sleep problems can be complex and challenging. Environmental interventions which resynchronise the sleep/wake cycle have been trialled with promising results for people with dementia in institutionalised settings. However, there is less research concerning community-dwelling people with dementia and their family carers. This study involved a five-week feasibility study including timed light therapy, exercise and sleep education. Sleep and physical and mental functioning were measured at the beginning and end of the trial using objective measures, standardised questionnaires and structured participant feedback. Of 15 community-dwelling pairs who participated, nine completed the trial. The case studies presented here reveal that it is feasible for this population to use non-pharmacological interventions, with positive outcomes. However, there are also issues that can mask benefits or prevent compliance. The options for treating dementia are limited. Environmental interventions may help manage dementia-related sleep problems and further trials would be worthwhile to improve compliance and evaluate effectiveness.
authors.affiliation: Sleep/Wake Research Centre, Massey University, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Rosemary H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Gibson
authors.affiliation: Sleep/Wake Research Centre, Massey University, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Philippa H
authors.initials: PH
authors.lastname: Gander
authors.affiliation: Primary Health Care & General Practice, Otago University, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Anthony C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Dowell
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology, Massey University, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Linda M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Jones
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000193:education*; D003704:Dementia / Q000150:complications*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D057187:Independent Living; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000379:methods; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
keywords: ageing; case studies; dementia-related sleep problems; feasibility study; non-pharmacological interventions