Caring for a loved one at the end of life is an emotional journey, and one of the more difficult challenges families face is dealing with sleepless nights. Insomnia and restlessness are common in hospice care, making it hard for patients to feel at ease and for caregivers to get much-needed rest. Sleep disturbances can lead to frustration, exhaustion, and added stress for everyone involved.

At ProCare Hospice of Nevada, we know how important it is to create a peaceful space where your loved one can feel as comfortable as possible. While we can’t eliminate every challenge, there are ways to ease restlessness and promote better sleep.

Table of Contents

• Why Do Insomnia and Restlessness Happen in Hospice Care?
• How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Sleep
• How Hospice Can Help with Sleep Challenges
• When Extra Support May Be Needed
• Finding Peace in Restless Nights
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do Insomnia and Restlessness Happen in Hospice Care?

Sleep disturbances in hospice care can happen for a number of reasons. Sometimes, it’s due to discomfort—whether from pain, trouble breathing, or difficulty finding a good sleeping position. Other times, emotional or psychological factors play a role. Worries, fears, or even unresolved thoughts can make it hard to relax.

Medication changes can also contribute to sleep issues. Some prescriptions cause drowsiness, while others may have the opposite effect. In some cases, the body’s natural sleep cycle shifts, causing a person to feel awake at night and sleepy during the day.

These disruptions can be unsettling, but with the right approach, it’s possible to bring a sense of calm and reassurance.

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Sleep

Finding ways to improve sleep isn’t about forcing a strict schedule—it’s about making small adjustments that encourage relaxation and comfort.

Setting Up a Relaxing Space

A peaceful environment makes a big difference in how well someone sleeps. Soft lighting, soothing sounds, and a comfortable room temperature can help the body and mind settle.

Instead of overhead lights, try using a dim lamp or a nightlight. If the room is too quiet, playing soft music or nature sounds can create a sense of calm. Adjust the bedding as needed—some people sleep better with lightweight blankets, while others may feel more secure with something heavier.

Creating a Gentle Routine

Even if traditional sleep schedules no longer apply, having a familiar rhythm to the day can be comforting.

• Encourage relaxing activities in the evening, like listening to favorite songs or enjoying a warm cup of caffeine-free tea.
• Avoid too many daytime naps, especially in the late afternoon, as this can make nighttime sleep harder.
• Try to keep meals and activities on a steady schedule so the body naturally winds down at night.

Sometimes, just having consistency can make a difference in how easily a person falls asleep.

Easing Anxiety and Restlessness

The mind can be just as restless as the body, especially when someone is processing big emotions. Anxiety, sadness, and even fear of the unknown can make sleep elusive.

Spending time together before bed—whether through quiet conversation, reminiscing about good memories, or simply sitting in comfortable silence—can be reassuring. Gentle touch, like holding a hand or giving a light massage, can also provide comfort.

For some, guided relaxation techniques can help. Breathing exercises, meditation, or even a soothing bedtime story can be a welcome distraction from anxious thoughts.

Making Physical Comfort a Priority

Physical discomfort is one of the most common reasons for poor sleep. Pain, stiffness, nausea, or trouble breathing can make it hard to settle in. Adjusting pillows and blankets can help relieve pressure points, while a warm compress or light massage may ease tension.

If symptoms seem to be getting worse or interfering with rest, the hospice team can provide additional support. Whether it’s adjusting medication, recommending a different sleep position, or offering other comfort measures, there are always ways to make rest easier.

How Hospice Can Help with Sleep Challenges

One of the many benefits of hospice care in Las Vegas is having a compassionate team that’s there to help navigate sleep disturbances. At ProCare Hospice of Nevada, we take a holistic approach, looking at the physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may be affecting sleep.

We work with families to:

• Assess and manage any discomfort that may be interfering with rest.
• Adjust medications if they are causing sleeplessness or excessive drowsiness.
• Provide emotional and spiritual support to ease anxiety.
• Offer recommendations for comfort strategies tailored to each individual.

Every person’s experience is unique, and we focus on providing the right care to make this time as peaceful as possible.

When Extra Support May Be Needed

Not every sleep disturbance requires a major intervention, but sometimes extra support is necessary. If your loved one is struggling with severe restlessness, distress, or ongoing discomfort, it’s important to reach out.

Signs that additional support may be needed include:

• Increased distress or agitation that isn’t improving with usual comfort measures.
• Frequent waking or difficulty staying asleep for extended periods.
• Significant changes in breathing or discomfort that make rest impossible.
• Caregiver exhaustion, which can make it harder to provide the best care.

Sleep issues can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Our hospice team in Las Vegas is always here to help.

Finding Peace in Restless Nights

Sleep struggles can be frustrating for both patients and caregivers, but small changes can make a big difference. Whether it’s adjusting the environment, easing anxiety, or addressing physical discomfort, there are many ways to bring comfort and peace.

At ProCare Hospice of Nevada, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care that supports both patients and their families in Las Vegas. If your loved one is experiencing restlessness or difficulty sleeping, we’re here to help.

If you or someone you know is in need of hospice care or end-of-life support, contact ProCare Hospice of Nevada today. Call us at 702-380-8300 or fill out our contact form here. Our team is here to provide guidance, comfort, and compassionate care when it matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it normal for sleep patterns to change in hospice care?

Yes, it’s very common. As the body changes, sleep cycles often shift. Some people may sleep more, while others have difficulty staying asleep.

• What can I do if my loved one is restless at night?

Try to create a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Soft lighting, soothing music, and gentle reassurance can help ease restlessness.

• Are sleep disturbances a sign of pain?

Sometimes, yes. If restlessness is accompanied by facial expressions of discomfort, groaning, or changes in breathing, it may be a sign that pain management needs to be adjusted.

• How can I help my loved one feel more at ease before bed?

Encourage relaxation by playing soft music, sharing stories, or offering a light massage. A familiar bedtime routine can also help signal that it’s time to rest.

• When should I ask for hospice support with sleep issues?

If sleep problems are persistent and affecting your loved one’s well-being—or if you, as a caregiver, are feeling overwhelmed—reach out to your hospice team for guidance.