What Is Dementia Sundowning and How to Manage It?

You may have noticed that a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia exhibits a change in behavior in the later part of the day or in the early evening. Often referred to as late-day confusion, this occurrence is known as sundown syndrome or sundowning.This phenomenon is a symptom of dementia and can trigger sudden cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes that include:

• Energy surges
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations
• Restlessness
• Increased confusion
• Delusions
• Mood swings
• Sadness

Research has shown that about 20% of patients with Alzheimer’s experience sundowning, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Tips for Managing Symptoms of Sundown Syndrome

Simplify surroundings

Reducing the amount of auditory, visual and physical clutter in the area where your loved one sleeps is helpful in reducing the anxiety and confusion that comes with sundowning. An overload of sensory stimulation is often a trigger for sundown syndrome symptoms and is made worse by changes in natural light. Request that the care staff at the assisted living facility where your loved one lives turn off any radio or tv that may be on at night.

Structure activities and routines

Keeping a structured daily routine is best. Familiarity will help them to feel more secure. If your loved one is not sleeping well at night, try to reduce napping during the day as much as possible. Encourage your senior loved one to get the most out of daily activities offered within their assisted living community. It’s also advised to avoid challenging or stressful situations or activities later in the evening and at night. 

Stimulate a regular sleep-wake cycle

Because sundowning is a behavioral side effect of all forms of dementia, it is advised to stimulate a structured sleep-wake cycle in the patient’s surroundings. Natural light is the most important cue for those with dementia as to when it is time to sleep and when it is time to wake. Keeping their environment well lit during the day can help the individual stay oriented by keeping their circadian rhythm in check.

Socialization

It is sometimes the case that family members of a person diagnosed with dementia feel the individual needs to be isolated to avoid embarrassing situations, but the opposite is actually true. Numerous studies have shown that dementia patients who are socially isolated or lack adequate social interaction tend to deteriorate quicker. Always keeping safety in mind, regularly scheduled social interactions during the day can help reduce the onset of sundowning symptoms. It is best to avoid these social interactions in the evening and at night.

Conclusion

It is important to be aware of the triggers that can bring on sundown syndrome behaviors. Whether it is simple fatigue, noisier or busier times in the late afternoon when families are visiting or in shared community areas, a shift change, or any other event that may trigger symptoms – strong observation skills are important for managing sundowning. It’s also important to remember that every dementia patient is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Empathy, creativity, and flexibility are all important when it comes to managing sundown syndrome triggers and symptoms. Even a minor success is helpful in relieving your loved one’s stress and anxiety.

Jurney’s Assisted Living offers a discerning residential environment for those who, for whatever reason, should not live alone, but do not require skilled nursing care. Here, residents can live as independently as they wish, with the calm assurance that help is always available, should they require assistance with their activities of daily living. Our residents range from being very independent to being physically and/or memory challenged. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour.