| Sumario: | Purpose Behavioral changes, such as wandering, sundowning, as well as related agitation, are important predictors for caregiver burnout and subsequently some of the major causes of institutionalization of people with dementia (Volicer, Harper & Manning, 2001 ; Hope et al., 2001). Insights into what influences a good quality of sleep is increasing. Nevertheless, knowledge on and attention to the importance of sleep on quality of life for people with dementia is limited by both informal and formal caregivers. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the challenges people with dementia living at home and their informal caregivers experience during the night, that can contribute to the development of technological interventions. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people with dementia and their informal caregivers to gain insight into their problems and challenges during the night in relation to sleep and sleep quality. Participants were also asked to keep a sleep diary for 2-7 days, based on the NHG (Dutch College of General Practitioners) guideline (NHG, 2014), before the visit. During the visit, open questions were posed, using topics based on literature and the guideline 'Care for Healthy sleep and sleep problems' (V&VN, 2021) (day/night rhythm; evening routine; causes and effects of sleep disturbances). In addition to the home visits, a focus group with formal caregivers was organized. The goal was to extent or confirm the results of the home visits from a multi-stakeholder perspective. Both home visits and focus group were recorded. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed resulting in an experience flow of people with dementia and their informal carers. Results and Discussion Eleven people were interviewed in this study. Three women suffering from dementia [59-83; mean age: 75], five informal caregivers [1 male, 4 female; 74-86; mean age: 82] and three formal caregivers [all female]. People with dementia have difficulty in accepting the loss in abilities. They may worry during day and night. They may even feel anxious. They experience less need for sleep; leave their bed to visit the toilet or even take a shower. Activities during the day and fresh air in the bed room may increase their quality of sleep. Informal carers have to be alert day and night being afraid something might go wrong. They have to reassure the person with dementia. An afternoon nap by the person with dementia gives the informal carer a moment to recharge. Dementia and old age complicate the ability perform daytime activities. Improving the knowledge about the importance of good sleep and opening up the discussion about sleep will increase the potential for tackling problems related to sleep for both people with dementia and their carers. Technologies may support in structure in day and night activities, taking into account personal habits and behaviors, to improve sleep quality.
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