Zero-burden technologies show that brighter days and cooler nights could improve sleep in dementia

Zero-burden technologies show that brighter days and cooler nights could improve sleep in dementia

Implementing changes to indoor environments, such as cooler bedrooms at night and increasing the amount of bright light during the day, could significantly improve sleep for people living with dementia, according to a study led by the University of Surrey.

A study at the University of Surrey shows brighter days and cooler nights can improve sleep for people with dementia.

Researchers monitored 70 people at home, collecting over 26,500 days of data using under-mattress sensors and contactless technology. Hotter bedrooms disrupted sleep and raised breathing rates, while brighter indoor light during the day led to longer, more restful sleep. The findings suggest simple changes to the home could help people with dementia sleep better and improve their daily wellbeing.