When someone with dementia becomes more confused, restless, or upset as the day turns to evening, it’s often called sundowning. This can be tough for both the person experiencing it and their caregivers. The good news is that there are practical ways to help manage these symptoms and make evenings calmer.
## What Is Sundowning?
Sundowning isn’t a disease itself—it’s a group of symptoms that tend to get worse in the late afternoon and evening. People might seem more anxious, agitated, or confused. They may pace, ask repetitive questions, or become suspicious. Sometimes they might even wander or have trouble sleeping at night.
## Why Does Sundowning Happen?
There isn’t one single cause for sundowning. Instead, several things can add up during the day and make symptoms worse by evening:
– **Fatigue:** Being tired makes it harder to cope with confusion.
– **Changes in light:** As daylight fades, shadows and dim lighting can be disorienting.
– **Hunger or thirst:** Basic needs sometimes go unnoticed but can lead to distress.
– **Overstimulation:** Too much noise, activity, or changes in routine can be overwhelming.
– **Disrupted sleep patterns:** Dementia often affects natural sleep-wake cycles.
– **Medical issues:** Pain or infections like urinary tract infections might not be obvious but can increase confusion.
Sometimes medications meant to help can actually make things worse if they cause drowsiness or confusion.
## How Can You Help Manage Sundowning?
Here are some straightforward steps you can take:
**Keep a Calm Routine**
Stick to a regular daily schedule as much as possible. Predictable routines help reduce anxiety because your loved one knows what to expect next.
**Watch Lighting**
Make sure rooms are well-lit during the day and use soft lighting in the evening—avoid harsh shadows that could confuse them further.
**Limit Stimulation**
Try to keep evenings quiet. Turn off loud TVs or radios if they seem bothered by noise. Avoid having too many visitors at once later in the day.
**Check for Physical Needs**
Offer snacks and drinks regularly so hunger doesn’t add stress later on. Make sure your loved one is comfortable—pain relief matters too!
**Encourage Daytime Activity**
Gentle exercise during daylight hours helps tire them out naturally so they may sleep better at night without feeling restless when darkness falls
**Monitor Medications**
If you notice new behaviors after starting medicine (or changing doses), talk with their doctor about whether adjustments could help
## When Should You Seek Help?
If sundowning becomes severe—for example if there is aggression risk of wandering away from home hallucinations paranoia interfering with safety—it’s important reach out healthcare provider They may suggest additional strategies review medications rule out other medical problems contributing symptoms
Remember: Every person experiences dementia differently What works best will depend on individual needs preferences Caregivers should also look after themselves because supporting someone through these challenges takes patience energy support networks matter just as much
