How to make the night safer (lights, sensors)?

My mother gets up several times at night, walks around the house in the dark, and has already fallen once. I'm also afraid she might open the door and go out while I'm asleep. How can I make the nights safer for her and for me?

Not being able to rest because you fear what happens at night is exhausting. Being aware of these risks is a sign of good care, and there's a lot you can do to help you both sleep more soundly.

Why it happens

At night, disorientation worsens, and the person may confuse day and night, look for the bathroom, or want to go out. Low light and confusion increase the risk of falls and dangerous exits.

Practical strategies

• Install motion-sensor night lights in the bedroom, hallway, and bathroom.
• Remove loose rugs, wires, and obstacles; keep the path to the bathroom clear and lit.
• Use door and bed sensors or alarms that alert you when the person gets up or tries to leave.
• Consider security locks on the exit door (with easy exit in an emergency).
• Take care of the daytime routine: activity and natural light help improve night-time sleep.

What NOT to do

• Do not leave the house in the dark or with barriers that could cause falls.
• Do not resort to physical restraints to keep them in bed.

When to seek professional help

If restless nights or insomnia are frequent, talk to your GP: there may be pain, infection, or another treatable cause. Do not give sleeping medication on your own initiative. The SNS 24 Line (808 24 24 24) can also help with urgent questions.

"I put a sensor on her bedroom door. Now I wake up when she gets up, but at least I sleep in between." — Anonymous Carer