Why do elderly people with dementia stay awake and keep walking at night, and what should be done about it?

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Jun

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease, also known as senile dementia, may cause patients to stay awake and pace continuously at night. This could be due to physiological factors or pathological causes such as calcium deficiency or neurasthenia. Treatment may involve general therapeutic approaches or medication. Besides these reasons, it could also be caused by restless legs syndrome. It is important to maintain an optimistic mindset and avoid emotional excitement.

Dementia refers to Alzheimer's disease. The condition in which patients with Alzheimer's disease cannot sleep at night and keep walking may be caused by physiological factors, or pathological factors such as calcium deficiency or neurasthenia. It can be treated through general management or medication. Specific details are as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

If the patient sleeps for a long time during the day, it may lead to reversed day-night rhythm, resulting in nocturnal hyperactivity and continuous walking. Generally, no special treatment is required. Adjusting the sleep schedule appropriately can effectively improve this condition.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Calcium Deficiency

Calcium deficiency may result from insufficient vitamin D synthesis, hormonal influences, dietary factors, etc., potentially leading to decreased immunity and causing the aforementioned symptoms. Under medical guidance, patients may take supplements such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets or calcium gluconate zinc oral solution for treatment.

2) Neurasthenia

This may be caused by prolonged mental stress or irregular作息 (daily routines), leading to mental overexcitement and sleep disturbances. Under medical supervision, treatments such as Anshen Bunao Liquid, flupentixol-melitracen tablets, or Yening Granules may be used.

Besides the above-mentioned causes, this behavior could also be due to restless legs syndrome. It is important to maintain an optimistic mindset and avoid emotional agitation.

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