My husband's neurologist said he just might be resting his brain and
recuperating from all the effort it takes to get around, mentally and
physically. Also, for me, I felt it could be depression so his doctor
precribed an antidepressant. Didn't hurt.
@A myALZteam Member: The amount of sleep per day tends to increase as the stages increase, but it's usually a gradual increase. A sudden, large change would be something to discuss with the doctor, as there could be an underlying medical reason (ie, maybe a urinary tract infection or other infection?)
Also, were you ever able to find out what kind of Dementia your husband has? I'm asking because there's a known link between excessive sleepiness and Vascular Dementia -- but again, if it's a sudden, large change, call the doctor because it could be serious (ie, microhemorrhage / mini-stroke).
@A myALZteam Member: You can get Urinary Test Strips and check for a Urinary Tract Infection right at home. I think it's a wise thing for Caregivers to have a supply of test strips at home.
I agree with the rest, get him in to MD, also fatigue can be a sign of anemic. Have you checked his BP, oxygen and heart rate?
@Donnawrite
How long has this new sleep pattern been going on for? What kind of mood is your loved one in while awake? I would suggest what Helen 5 said and have him cked by an m d. just to rule out any issues. Take care and please let us know the outcome.