87 yr old taking care of wife with alzh. getting no sleep can i take ambien (zolpidem) at night? i take ativan during the day for anziety

Not a good idea.: If you take ambien, (zolpidem) who is going to watch her at night. This might be a time to think of placement if she is awake all night and sleeps in the day. There are some meds you can get to help keep her in bed that deal with the agitation. However the only other thing one can do is have some one who is there to keep a watch on her while you sleep. Best wishes.

Stress: You are to be congratulated for your dedication to your wife as this is a huge burden. Would not recommend Ambien due to sleep walking risk and relatively rapid tolerance. You might do better with Lunesta (eszopiclone) or Trazadone. Phone your doctor about these approaches. However, if reversal of sleep-waking cycle affecting your wife, you may need outside help in dealing with all of this.

INSOMNIA: Getting good night's sleep is important for physical & mental health. Insomnia might be due to several reasons. Have a physical exam to rule out illness. If cleared consult with a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in multiple types of psychotherapy that helps you benefit from medication prescribed by a Psychiatrist. If uncomfortable with your Dr. seek 2nd opinion. You may need a sleep study.