Care Techniques
The Silent Story of Sleepless Nights with Parkinson’s
When nights seem endless, shadowed by the burdens that illness unwittingly brings, you may have seen that helpless look in your loved one’s eyes. While most are familiar with Parkinson’s daytime motor symptoms, the exhaustion caused by lost restful sleep quietly weighs on both the patient and their caregiver. If you’ve found yourself by the bedside, losing count of how many times you’ve woken up, wishing for better sleep, know that you are not alone. This article was prepared to offer both scientific insights and a voice for your feelings as you navigate sleep disorders as a family member or caregiver.
Why Can’t They Sleep? A Scientific Look at Parkinson’s and Sleep
A series of factors can impair sleep quality in Parkinson’s disease. Studies indicate that approximately 70% of people with Parkinson’s experience sleep problems. The underlying reasons include:
Nighttime movements caused by reduced dopamine (e.g. cramps, restless legs, involuntary contractions)
Medication side effects: Levodopa and similar medications can sometimes disrupt the sleep cycle
Common sleep disturbances that come with advanced age
Emotional factors such as anxiety and depression
Frequent nighttime urination (nocturia)
Rare but important: REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams, shouting, moving at night)
These multiple factors turn a sleepless Parkinson’s night into more than just ordinary fatigue. There is always hope and relief—let’s discover them together.
6 Practical and Evidence-Based Tips for Restful Nights
Now, let’s take a closer look at six effective strategies recommended by experts and experienced family caregivers to help your loved one (and yourself) sleep more soundly:
1. Establish a Regular Sleep Routine
The most important step for falling and staying asleep is making it a habit to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Research shows the circadian rhythm, or the body’s internal clock, is often disrupted in Parkinson’s. It’s best to keep bedtimes as consistent as possible—including on weekends.
Transform your home into a dim and quiet environment during night and early morning hours
Avoid blue-light devices such as TVs or tablets before bed
Remember, changes may not take effect immediately—be patient and observe for benefits after two weeks of consistency.
2. Limit Daytime Napping
People with Parkinson’s often feel sleepy during the day due to the illness and medications. However, long naps can disrupt nighttime sleep. Try to keep naps under 30 minutes for better sleep at night.
If necessary, opt for short and scheduled naps at the same time each day
Avoid spending extended periods in bed during the day
3. Use the Bed Only for Sleep
The brain associates behaviors with environments. Habits like reading or eating in bed condition you to use it for non-sleep activities. Whenever possible, reserve the bed and bedroom just for sleep.
If necessary, use a separate chair for reading or relaxation
4. Take Medications at the Right Time
Many Parkinson’s patients experience nighttime restlessness or insomnia due to medication side effects. Certain evening medications (such as dopamine agonists) may cause insomnia, while others result in frequent awakenings. Optimizing medication timing under medical supervision is the best approach.
If you notice a new or changed medication causing sleep problems, be sure to consult your doctor
Never discontinue or adjust medications on your own
5. Gentle Physical Activity and Calming Bedtime Routines
Light exercise during the day can decrease motor symptoms and promote deeper sleep at night. The American Parkinson Disease Association recommends stopping regular exercise (like walking or gentle stretching) at least four hours before bedtime. In the evenings, consider these routines to ease into sleep:
Take a warm shower
Listen to relaxing music
Do short breathing or relaxation exercises
6. Make the Environment Safe and Comfortable
Since nighttime awakenings are common in Parkinson’s, safety measures can provide peace of mind. Using a night light, placing a soft rug by the bed, and keeping essential personal items (medications, phone, water) within reach can reduce falls and anxiety.
The room temperature should be neither too hot nor too cold
If bathroom visits are necessary at night, make sure the paths are well-lit
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep
What if the person keeps tossing and turning in bed?
Consider a different pillow or mattress firmness, and consult a doctor about possible restless legs syndrome. Bed protectors or waterproof covers can also help ease hygiene concerns.Do sleep problems worsen as the disease progresses?
Yes. Statistics show that sleep disruptions and nighttime behavior disorders increase in advanced stages, but with proper care and environmental adjustments, issues can often be managed.When should you seek professional help?
If the patient frequently falls at night, has choking risks, or shows severe nightmares or behavioral changes, consulting a neurologist is essential. An overnight stay in a sleep lab may be recommended for diagnosis.
A Few Words for You: To the Sleepless Caregivers
"Sometimes a long sleepless night turns into unending daytime fatigue. But remind yourself: Each night passed with love and patience adds to your loved one’s joy for life. When you are tired or feel hopeless, do not hesitate to seek support from others who have faced similar challenges or from healthcare professionals. You too deserve restful sleep and to wake up healthy in body and mind."
Conclusion: A Small Step for Each Night
Sleep disorders in Parkinson’s disease are complex, with no magical single solution. However, with the daily practices above, more restful nights are possible. As you care for your loved one and yourself, you can soften the boundary between night and day. Compassion, knowledge, and small changes can bring renewed hope—every night.
Resources
American Parkinson Disease Association. Sleep and Parkinson's Disease. Accessed: 2024
Chahine LM, Amara AW, Videnovic A. A Review of the Literature on Parkinson's Disease and Sleep. Sleep Medicine, 2017
National Institute on Aging. Parkinson's Disease and Sleep. 2023
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