I show her that we are right across the hall from her, but she doesn't care, she wants someone in her bed. I explain that I can't, I sleep with my husband (I'm afraid to start something that I won't be able to stop by sleeping with her). Mom has dementia and gets in these "states" where she just won't listen and is telling wild tales. Later she calms down but this discussion can last for a couple of hours and it's getting more frequent. Used to be once a week maybe now almost every night. Last night after I told her she could not crawl into bed with us, there wasn't room she asked to put a cot in our bedroom. Not sure how to handle this. Any suggestions appreciated.
Thank you.
My Grandpa is the same way
I have found Dr Bach Rescue Remedy ( applied where you apply perfume. Ie wrists & behind ears
Also a few drops in all drinks throughout the day have really helped with the irrational fears and sleep problems
avail on Amazon, EBay & all big supermarkets etc. been around 80 years. All natural. No side or after effects
Additionally a tea of chamomile )4 bags to a mug) served with honey
or Catnip tea help give a deep relaxed aleep
if he is still upset & restless I pull the sheets out at the bottom of the bed and massage his feet with a little warm olive oil with a few added drops of essential Lavender oil
look up the reflex points for head & neck on a chart on google & pay special attention to reflex points there
He slides off to sleep while I massage Then I put on some big clean comfy cotton Sox
Majority now he sleeps until the morning
Just yesterday mentioned. “I’m sleeping really well”
it’s a lot of work initially
However he’s stopped asking if he will die in the night. And if I will sleep with him
with deep sleep he’s a much easier & more happy camper also
Let us know how you get on :)
I don't know how it would be, but if you have a medium size dog, would a real one help? I have no idea if it would work or not, perhaps someone else on the forum has tried it. Mom, Spot is going to stay here tonight to protect you.
I don't know how it would be, but if you have a medium size dog, would a real one help? I have no idea if it would work or not, perhaps someone else on the forum has tried it. Mom, Spot is going to stay here tonight to protect you.
I will say Mum absolutely loves the cats sleeping on her bed. One cat is a senior so they have a special bond. Mum will ask where he is when going to bed and prep the bed for him. His also a real chill cat that is like a carer cat ;) his always purring and comforting. Some days I have played those relaxation apps. Mum particularly likes the rainforest and birds chirping sound. Just not rain as she’s sick of the rain atm with all her heart. It’s been raining here for real so much.
Stick to a routine of helping her sleep in her own bed, using the suggestions mentioned in above posts as well.
Its a phase that will pass.
Best wishes.🙏
The ideas of a pet, a big pillow (perhaps wrapped in a flannel shirt), and a large stuffed animal all make sense to me.
I'd also consider either an infant baby doll, or a toddler sized doll for her. Baby dolls have been shown to be very calming for dementia patients. She might enjoy a bedtime routine of putting the baby to bed beside her, then going to sleep herself. Perhaps add music (lullabies might be in line with the routine) or some sound she decides would comfort the child.