One of the less understood issues of dementia care is sundowning. This is a mental state marked by increased confusion and agitation in older adults around sunset. Although doctors aren’t certain of the cause, there are ways to minimize the effects and manage symptoms. If your loved one has this issue, here’s what you should know.

What Is Sundowning? 

Also called sundown syndrome, sundowning doesn’t have a clear definition. It generally involves unusual behavior that takes place around the evening.

Examples of this behavior include sudden confusion, irritability or agitation, and restlessness. In more severe cases, your loved one may experience hallucinations, angry outbursts, and suspicion of others. 

Sundown syndrome typically affects Alzheimer’s patients, or people receiving dementia care. Symptoms can also arise in older people recovering from procedures in hospitals. The exact cause is still under investigation, but sundowning is believed to be connected to circadian rhythms.

These rhythms serve as your body’s clock, signaling when you should go to sleep and wake up. Sundowning could disrupt this process, creating confusion and frustration in your loved one. 

How Do You Manage It?

There isn’t a single recommended course of action to relieve sundowning. Instead, a few habit adjustments could reduce the severity of the symptoms.

Establish a routine to cut down on surprises and keep confusion at bay. Schedule as few big activities a day as possible to prevent your loved one from feeling overwhelmed. 

Avoid allowing any potential sleep disruptions by limiting sugar and caffeine later in the day. Reduce noise sources as well, like televisions, radios, and visitors, particularly during the evening. Stick to soft, soothing sounds, and a quiet environment when bedtime is approaching. 

During the day, try to schedule some outside time if the weather permits. Sunlight exposure helps set the body’s internal clock, which is why it’s important to also let as much natural light inside as possible. Use nightlights at night, as adequate lighting has been shown to help sundowning patients ease their symptoms. 

Are you in search of compassionate dementia care for a loved one? Merry Health Care Center in Succasunna, NJ, assists with issues ranging from sundowning to Alzheimer’s. With over 60 years of experience providing dignified care to the elderly, these professionals are ready to help. For more information on their services, visit their website or call (973) 584-4000 today.