Sundowning is a common occurrence among dementia patients, leaving individuals in a state of confusion that can last for several hours. While eliminating future recurrences isn’t possible, understanding the causes could provide a way to alleviate symptoms. Consider the following to ensure the proper level of senior care for your loved one.

What Triggers Sundowning?

Symptoms—such as anxiety, wandering, and aggression—tend to appear in the later afternoon and evening hours. Your loved one might begin to get tired at this time, or the low lighting might affect their focus. As a result, they might feel slightly less sure of themselves be unable to sleep.

Time changes can also throw off individuals’ internal clocks, making it difficult to separate dreams from reality. Your loved one may appear aggressive and start pacing, eventually wandering out to another area of the home. Keep an eye out for the possibility of an infection, as this can exacerbate the symptoms of sundowning.

How Can You Help Alleviate Symptoms?

The optimal form of senior care in this situation is to maintain a stable routine. Knowing what to expect allows your loved one to relax and not struggle with performing an upcoming task. You should also increase their exposure to sunlight during the day by opening curtains and encouraging outdoor activities. This uses their energy and ensures that they’ll be ready to sleep come nighttime.

Another senior care technique is to turn off any stimulants, including the television, and put on a selection of soft music. Bring out familiar objects, such as family photos, and sit with them until they seem calm. You could also turn on a night light to reduce the shadows and make their surroundings appear less confusing.

Ensure your loved one receives quality senior care by reaching out to The Vineyards at Concord. They have been in operation since 1986 and provide a variety of services throughout Chillicothe and Frankfort, OH. Skilled nursing care is available 24/7, as well as in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation. They are ranked among the top long-term care facilities in Ross County and have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau® for their exceptional customer service. Learn more about the services they provide by visiting their website. Call (740) 998-4779 to set up an appointment.