Dementia can cause significant changes in a person’s behavior and daily routines, including disruptions to their sleep-wake cycle. Your aunt’s desire to cook a full meal at 3 AM is likely related to a phenomenon called “sundowning” or “sundown syndrome,” which is common in people with dementia[1][3].
Sundowning typically causes increased confusion, agitation, and unusual behaviors in the late afternoon or evening. However, these symptoms can persist into the night, leading to nighttime wandering and attempts to perform daytime activities like cooking[1].
There are several reasons why your aunt might feel compelled to cook in the middle of the night:
1. Disrupted circadian rhythm: Dementia can affect the body’s internal clock, making it difficult for your aunt to distinguish between day and night[1].
2. Hunger or thirst: She may genuinely feel hungry or thirsty and believe it’s an appropriate time to eat.
3. Confusion about time: Your aunt might think it’s actually dinnertime, unaware that it’s the middle of the night.
4. Reliving past routines: Cooking might have been an important part of her daily routine, and she may be attempting to recreate familiar activities[3].
5. Unmet needs: Sometimes, people with dementia engage in unusual behaviors when they have unmet needs, such as boredom, loneliness, or anxiety[3].
To help manage this behavior, try to establish a consistent daily routine, ensure your aunt gets enough physical activity during the day, and create a calm, comfortable sleep environment. You might also consider leaving out safe snacks or setting up a simple, supervised cooking activity earlier in the day to satisfy her urge to prepare food[1][3].
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Make sure the kitchen is secure at night, perhaps by installing safety locks on appliances or removing knobs from the stove. If the behavior persists or becomes dangerous, consult with her healthcare provider for additional strategies or potential medication adjustments[1][5].
