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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is Involuntary Jerking While Sleeping Normal For Alzeimers?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Slayton, MN

My husband does alot of jerking at times when he is asleep. In fact my son-in-law described it as if he were "tazed". Is this normal for Alzheimers?

March 21, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members strongly confirmed that involuntary jerking during sleep is common in Alzheimer's patients, with many describing similar experiences... Read more

Members strongly confirmed that involuntary jerking during sleep is common in Alzheimer's patients, with many describing similar experiences including leg jerks, facial twitches, mumbling, and hand movements that sometimes resemble eating. Several members shared medications that helped reduce these movements, including Tramadol, Clonazepam for REM sleep disorder, and Requip or Mirapex for restless leg syndrome, though some noted the jerking stopped when certain medications like Exelon were discontinued. A recurring theme was the difficulty in distinguishing whether symptoms stem from Alzheimer's itself or from medications, with members emphasizing the importance of working with doctors to find the right treatment approach.

A myALZteam Member

Hi, Mum did this as well although she didnt spend that amount of money.....I have EPA so I changed her account from a passbook to a key card which she cannot remember the pin for and cant use. I put $100 in her purse (small notes) She now has forgotton just what money she actually has. Also the bank can alert you for out of the ordinary withdrawals. I found this part of me caring for her was so difficult so using the bank as an excuse worked for her and me. hugs and luck to you

April 9, 2016
A myALZteam Member

Sounds like restless leg syndrome

March 25, 2016
A myALZteam Member

This behavior is different from Restless Leg (my guy has that too!) He describes RLS as a very uncomfortable sensation in his legs that makes him feel like he could jump from here to the moon. But it is not involuntary twitching, and it is only his legs. In his sleep, it can be arms too, and conversation. He takes Requip (ropinerol) for the RLS, and Clonazepam for the REM sleep disorder.

March 30, 2016
A myALZteam Member

Sometimes you just have to do things whether they like it or not. Question is, do you have all the 'legal documents' in place which allow you to do so. Once you've decided what needs to be done, say for instance, placed a restriction on her withdrawals to where she can only draw out $20 a week, or $50 a month, then just tell her the bank has come up with some new rules and regulations. Talk to the bank manager so he will know to go along with what you're telling her.

March 25, 2016
A myALZteam Member

I didn't realize this was associated with ALZ. We were told it was REM sleep disorder.

March 25, 2016

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