Correlates of Sleep Disturbance Experienced by Informal Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia: A Systematic Review

Objectives This study aims to comprehensively review and update the literature concerning the correlates of sleep disturbance among caregivers of persons living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias to identify gaps in the literature and antecedent targets for interventions. Methods We searched PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase using terms related to "sleep," "caregiver," and "dementia." Results Thirty-six articles were included in this review. Based on the antecedents within the 3P model of insomnia, predisposing factors associated with caregiver sleep included caregiver demographics, and physiological factors like genotype and biomarkers. Precipitating factors related to caregiver sleep included caregiving status and responsibilities, and person living with dementia factors. Conclusions Sleep disturbance is a significant issue for caregivers of persons living with dementia. However, this review has identified multiple precipitating factors that are modifiable targets for interventions to improve or enhance caregiver sleep. Clinical Implications Numerous predisposing and precipitating factors contribute to caregivers of persons living with dementia being susceptible to sleep disturbance. Healthcare providers should ask patients about their caregiving status during annual visits. Healthcare providers should also evaluate caregivers' sleep patterns, and the predisposing and precipitating factors of sleep disturbance, with a focus on the modifiable factors, to enable timely intervention.