Sundowning syndrome is a common challenge for many people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It usually happens in the late afternoon or early evening, when confusion, agitation, and restlessness increase. Supporting good sleep hygiene after sundowning can make a big difference in helping loved ones feel calmer and get better rest.
One of the most important steps is to **manage light exposure** throughout the day. Our bodies rely on natural light to regulate the internal clock that controls sleep and wake cycles. Opening curtains first thing in the morning and spending time outside in sunlight helps reset this clock by boosting melatonin production at night. During cloudy days or when outdoor time isn’t possible, using daylight-spectrum lamps indoors can also help maintain this rhythm. In the evening, dimming lights signals that it’s time to wind down and prepares the body for sleep.
Keeping a **consistent daily routine** is another key factor. People experiencing sundowning often feel more secure when they know what to expect next. This means having regular times for waking up, meals, activities, and bedtime—even on weekends or holidays—to reduce confusion and anxiety.
Afternoons between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., often called “witching hours,” are critical times to avoid overstimulation but also prevent boredom or inactivity that can lead to restlessness. Gentle activities like folding towels together, listening to familiar music, reading quietly, or going for an early evening walk help keep energy balanced without causing agitation.
Nutrition plays a role too: offering a larger lunch with lighter dinners helps digestion before bedtime; limiting caffeine and sugar intake after mid-afternoon prevents extra alertness; avoiding alcohol supports deeper sleep; snacks rich in tryptophan (like turkey) combined with complex carbs may promote relaxation at night.
Daytime naps should be kept short—around 20-30 minutes—and scheduled before 3 p.m., so they don’t interfere with nighttime restfulness.
Creating a calm environment as evening approaches makes settling down easier: lowering noise levels by turning off TVs or phones reduces distractions; keeping rooms comfortably cool avoids discomfort; familiar scents through aromatherapy may soothe anxiety; playing soft music can create peaceful surroundings.
When moments of confusion arise during sundowning episodes, caregivers’ words matter greatly—using gentle reassurance instead of correction helps ease distress:
– “You’re safe here with me.”
– “Let’s sit together awhile.”
– “Tell me about your favorite memories.”
These simple phrases validate feelings without escalating frustration.
If these home strategies aren’t enough to improve sleep patterns or if other health issues like infections are suspected contributors to worsening symptoms, consulting healthcare professionals who specialize in elder care is advisable before considering medications.
Supporting someone through sundowning involves patience combined with thoughtful adjustments around light exposure, routines, nutrition habits, calming activities during vulnerable hours—and always responding kindly during moments of distress—to foster better nights filled with more restful sleep.
