A research conducted by New Edith Cowan University has found that 94% of Australian dementia caregivers are sleep deprived.
This could lead to poor health and impaired ability to provide care for people with dementia.
Sleep deprivation can cause negative outcomes, both physically and psychologically. Potential effects include hypertension, obesity, mood disorders, and even dementia.
The study, spearheaded by Dr. Aisling Smyth investigated 104 Australian caregivers and assessed their wellbeing by evaluating their mood and sleep patterns.
Dr. Smyth said that stress among carers is associated with their sleep pattern and this could translate to more serious problems, both individually and collectively.
He added that it is optimal for families to directly manage to provide care to their loved ones with dementia. Compromising the caregiver’s wellbeing should not be an option as they still play a crucial role in realising the said results.
Key Findings
· 94 per cent of participants experience sleep deprivation
· 84 per cent experience difficulties in initiating sleep while 72 per cent reported difficulty in maintaining sleep
· Stress as a major factor contributing to sleep quality
· 44 per cent have chronic conditions
· Psychological distress was common
Sleeping better
Dr. Smyth and his team are currently working on a program that aims to promote better sleep for dementia caregivers.
The program will be applying cognitive behavioral therapy to make sleep quicker and more efficient among caregivers.
