Light therapy can be a helpful tool in managing sundowning symptoms in people with Alzheimer’s disease by supporting their disrupted circadian rhythms and improving sleep patterns. Sundowning refers to increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness that often occurs in the late afternoon or evening in individuals with dementia, including Alzheimer’s. This phenomenon is closely linked to disturbances in the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.
The core idea behind using light therapy for sundowning is to provide controlled exposure to bright light, especially in the morning, to help reset and strengthen the circadian rhythm. This can promote better alertness during the day and encourage more restful sleep at night, which in turn may reduce the severity of sundowning behaviors. Morning light exposure can be achieved through natural sunlight or specialized light therapy lamps that emit bright, full-spectrum light. Consistent daily exposure to such light helps signal to the brain when it is time to be awake and when to prepare for sleep, improving overall sleep quality and reducing late-day agitation.
In practice, caregivers can incorporate light therapy by encouraging outdoor time during daylight hours or using light boxes for about 30 to 60 minutes each morning. This routine helps reinforce the natural sleep-wake cycle, which is often disrupted in Alzheimer’s patients. In the evening, dimming household lights and minimizing stimulating activities can further support the transition to a calm, restful state. Some individuals may also benefit from night lights to reduce confusion and anxiety during nighttime hours.
Besides light therapy, managing sundowning involves creating a stable and soothing environment with consistent daily routines, reduced noise levels, and comforting activities such as listening to soft music or engaging in gentle exercises during the day. Avoiding caffeine and high-sugar foods later in the day can also help minimize restlessness. Reorientation techniques, like gently reminding the person of the time and place, can reduce confusion during sundowning episodes.
While light therapy is not a cure for Alzheimer’s or sundowning, it is a safe, non-invasive approach that can significantly improve quality of life by helping regulate sleep and reducing behavioral symptoms associated with sundowning. It is best used as part of a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual’s needs, ideally under the guidance of healthcare professionals experienced in dementia care.
