Find Senior Care (City or Zip)
Join Now Log In
M
msdaizy Asked November 2012

Mom with dementia is like the energizer bunny. What do you use to get your loved one to sleep at night?

Trazadone didn't work for her. Ambiem doesn't do anything but make her stagger. I hate to give her lorazepam but that's what I have left. The nurse suggested I give her more that .5 mg. Does anyone have any other suggestions? I am at my wits end... so sleep deprived!

EXPERT Carol Bradley Bursack, CDSGF Nov 2012
It sounds as though you are working closely with the medical team, so you could at least try the higher dose. You'll want to watch for negative side effects, and you don't want her sleeping all the time, however you both need some rest. If a higher dose of lorazepam doesn't put her into a complete fog during the day, it may be worth trying, at least occasionally. Keep in close contact with the doctor.
Take care of yourself,
Carol

ladee1 Nov 2012
We have recently added Melatonin to S's night time meds, and are having no side effects and he is getting more rest.... it can be bought over the counter, but talk with her Dr. first.. hope something works out for you soon.... not good for either one of you to be loosing sleep....

ADVERTISEMENT


Kimbee Nov 2012
Hi msdaizy, energizer bunny energy could indicate bipolar. Any other indicators or history? Perhaps a Geri psych eval is in order? A mood stabilizer may give the calming effect w o the sedation. Just a thought... Also, Can u increase moms "exercise" during the morning? May help too. Hope you get some rest, it's soo tiring to be up all night long, I feel for you. Kimbee

ADVERTISEMENT

Ask a Question

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter