As we age, our bodies go through many changes. One common occurrence in older adults is the development of sundowning symptoms, also known as sundown syndrome. This term refers to a group of symptoms that often occur in the late afternoon or evening, and can include confusion, agitation, restlessness, and mood swings. These symptoms are most commonly seen in individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, but can also affect those without cognitive impairments. While there is no definitive cure for sundowning, there are various treatments that have been found to be effective in managing its symptoms. One such treatment is light therapy.
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment that involves exposing an individual to artificial light sources in order to regulate their circadian rhythm. Our circadian rhythm is essentially our body’s internal clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycle. As we age, this rhythm can become disrupted, leading to sleep disturbances and other changes in our daily routines. This disruption can also contribute to the development of sundowning symptoms.
Research has shown that light therapy can be an effective tool in managing sundowning symptoms. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that light therapy was able to reduce agitation and restlessness in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50%. But how exactly does light therapy work to improve these symptoms?
The answer lies in the role of light on our circadian rhythm. Our bodies are naturally sensitive to light, particularly natural sunlight. When we are exposed to light, it signals our brain to produce serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate our mood and sleep. As the day progresses and the sun sets, our bodies naturally start to produce melatonin, a hormone that promotes drowsiness and helps us fall asleep at night.
In individuals with sundowning symptoms, this natural process can become disrupted. Their bodies may not respond as strongly to natural sunlight, leading to a decrease in serotonin production and an increase in melatonin production later in the day. This can contribute to the confusion, restlessness, and agitation that is commonly seen in sundowning.
With light therapy, artificial light sources are used to mimic the effects of natural sunlight. By exposing individuals to bright, artificial light in the morning and throughout the day, their bodies are able to produce more serotonin, helping regulate their mood and sleep patterns. This can also delay the production of melatonin, leading to a more gradual and natural transition into nighttime.
In addition to improving mood and sleep, light therapy has also been found to have other benefits for individuals with sundowning symptoms. These include improved cognitive function, decreased anxiety and depression, and increased overall quality of life. By regulating their circadian rhythm, individuals may also experience a decrease in other symptoms commonly associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s, such as wandering and aggression.
While light therapy has shown promising results in managing sundowning symptoms, it is important to note that it is not a cure. It is most effective when used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication and behavioral therapy. Additionally, everyone’s response to light therapy may vary, so it is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for each individual.
In conclusion, light therapy has been found to have a significant impact on sundowning symptoms. By regulating our body’s natural circadian rhythm, it can improve mood, sleep, and overall quality of life for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As further research continues to be conducted on this treatment, it has the potential to greatly improve the lives of those affected by sundowning.
