Why do nursing homes get residents up so early at 4 AM?

When my Mom was in a nursing home the Staff got almost everyone into bed by 8pm, so it is natural for people to wake up at 4 a.m. after getting 8 hours of sleep.

Waking Residents up at 4 AM is way too early for them. This People have Dementia and many other Health issues. They have their Rights to sleep in. Some of these people can't talk. Staffs are not to do this because of their convenience. We as a caregiver, med aides, nurse., have to respect them elderly patients. How would you feel if one of your family member is in one of this facility, and the staffs are getting them up at that time? I would've want my family to get up at that time. We all are humans. Some of the patients don't want to get up, but they get them up anyways. Don't forget that we're all getting to that age one day. I've been working in all shifts. So I know how it is. Yes we have many other stuffs to do. To get things done before your shifts ends.? Set a routine for yourself. Trust me... if I can do it. You can too. Only lazy people complains.

WHEN I WORKED IN A NURSING HOME WE HAD TO GET THEM UP FOR A BATH OR SHOWER AT 4 AM. I THINK THIS ALSO HAPPENS IN ANY NURSING HOME. REMEMBER THAT THESE HOMES HAVE TO FEED, DRESS, ALONG WITH MANY MANY CHORES AND IT IS NECESSARY FOR THE RESIDENTS TO GET THIS CARE.

I have also heard it that the nursing homes assist the patients to wake up early at 4 am.. I think that this is good for the patients as well as for their health. Because when they woke up early in the morning and go for a morning walk .... I don't doubt it that they will feel healthy and yes it will also help them in recovering their disease..

If the nursing home resident is up and moving about their room at 4AM, and is considered at risk for falling, the nursing home may think the safest thing is to go ahead and dress the resident and have them come out to public areas where they can be watched until breakfast. The resident may actually prefer it, as they have a chance to interact with staff on a one-to-one basis.

Nursing homes should not get residents up at 4am unless the person asks to do so. Culture change is a fundlemental way of thinking that is meant to keep home routines continued in the nursing home and not institutionalize the individual. If your loved one is restless and chooses to get up at 4am then he/she should not be force to stay in bed but if the resident is sleeping soundly, staff should never get them up for their convenience! Getting up at 4am also take further care planning to address food needed early and naps when needed. The resident's routine should be dictated by their wishes and not staff's. Your state ombudsman could help you mediate with the nursing home if you are unable to get satisfaction talking with them.