Abstract
BackgroundSleep disturbances are challenging symptoms associated with mild cognitive impairment or dementia (MCIoD). This study assessed the feasibility of sleep monitoring and non-pharmacological interventions to improve the sleep of New Zealanders with MCIoD and their family carers.MethodsA 5-week multi-modal intervention consisting of timed bright light therapy, physical activity, and sleep education was piloted. Sleep was monitored for a week at baseline and conclusion of the trial using actigraphy, diaries, and questionnaires alongside additional health and wellbeing information concerning both care recipients and carers.ResultsFifteen pairs participated, 9 completed the trial. Patterns of attrition and participant feedback are discussed. Case studies showed that six of the care recipients had minor improvements to sleep efficiency. Some also had improved subjective sleep ratings and quality of life. Changes did not clearly translate to family carers. However, five of them also showed some improvements in sleep status and mental health. Health deterioration of care recipients may mask the effects of the intervention.ConclusionsIt is feasible to use non-pharmacological sleep interventions for people with MCIoD and their family carers. Given the limited treatment options, further consideration of such interventions in future research and clinical practice is warranted.Trial registrationAs this study was to assess the feasibility of proposed methods, it was an observational study without case-control groups nor a medical-based intervention, clinical registration was not required. A future full version of the trial would be registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trails Registry.
Highlights
Disordered, irregular sleep, and sleep deprivation have been associated with poorer cognition, physical and mental health, and mortality [1, 2]
Sleep disturbances often occur in the early stages of cognitive decline and have been identified as among the most challenging symptoms associated with progressive dementias [6, 7]
Participants Fifteen pairs including a person with mild cognitive impairment or dementia (MCIoD) (“care recipients”) and their family carers (“carers”) were recruited via Alzheimers Wellington as well as via community advertisements, presentations, and referrals from healthcare professionals
Summary
Disordered, irregular sleep, and sleep deprivation have been associated with poorer cognition, physical and mental health, and mortality [1, 2]. Sleep disturbances often occur in the early stages of cognitive decline and have been identified as among the most challenging symptoms associated with progressive dementias (such as Alzheimer’s disease) [6, 7]. These disturbances have been related to reduced activity and function of the circadian master clock in the hypothalamus, as well as psycho-social and behavioural factors [6]. Sleep disturbances are challenging symptoms associated with mild cognitive impairment or dementia (MCIoD). This study assessed the feasibility of sleep monitoring and non-pharmacological interventions to improve the sleep of New Zealanders with MCIoD and their family carers
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