Rearranging a room can indeed help reduce sundowning behavior in people with Alzheimer’s disease. Sundowning refers to increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness that often occur in the late afternoon or evening. Creating a calm, clear, and familiar environment through thoughtful room arrangement can ease these symptoms.
One key way rearranging helps is by reducing clutter and confusion. When furniture and belongings are organized so they are easy to access and use, it lowers the chance of a person feeling overwhelmed or disoriented. Clear pathways free of obstacles prevent trips and falls, which can add to agitation. Removing confusing patterns, like busy carpets or shiny surfaces that might be mistaken for something else, also helps the person feel more secure.
Using contrasting colors in the room can make important items stand out. For example, a toilet seat or door handle in a color that contrasts with its background helps the person recognize and use them more easily. Good lighting is another important factor—well-lit rooms reduce shadows and dark areas that might cause fear or confusion during sundowning times.
Labels on doors and cupboards can guide someone with Alzheimer’s to find what they need without frustration. This kind of visual cue supports independence and reduces anxiety. Also, keeping the environment consistent—avoiding frequent changes in furniture placement—helps maintain a sense of familiarity, which can calm sundowning behaviors.
In addition to physical rearrangement, establishing routines and minimizing noise and distractions in the evening can further reduce sundowning. The goal is to create a soothing space that feels safe and easy to navigate, which can lessen the confusion and agitation that often come with sundowning in Alzheimer’s patients.
