Although it is still warm in Central Texas, the official start of fall is upon us. As the days begin to shorten and darkness comes earlier, many seniors, and especially those with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease, may have trouble with sundowning.
Sundowning, or Sundown Syndrome, refers to the confusion, irritability, anxiety, or insomnia one develops later in the day when the sun sets.
Approximately twenty percent of people who have Alzheimer’s experience some degree of sundowning.
This is something our team of experienced senior care experts at Blue Water Homecare sees frequently in our dementia clients.
Blue Water Homecare and Hospice founder and COO, Jennifer Prescott, RN, MSN, CDP, shares information on how to help your senior loved one who may be struggling with sundowning at this time of year.
How is Sundown Syndrome treated?
While there is no definitive cure for Sundown Syndrome, several treatment strategies aim to manage its symptoms and improve the affected individual’s quality of life.
Lifestyle approaches to curb sundowning include keeping a consistent daily schedule, ensuring adequate exposure to natural light during the day, engaging in regular physical and mental activities, routine mealtimes, and creating a soothing environment during the evening hours.
Additionally, optimizing sleep patterns and minimizing stimulants like caffeine can help reduce restlessness and agitation.
In extreme cases, medications may also be considered to address underlying conditions or sundowning symptoms. It is important for family caregivers and healthcare professionals to work together towards an individualized treatment plan that safely addresses their specific needs.
Sundowning Management Tips
- Stick to a Consistent Routine
Creating and following a regular daily routine can provide a sense of structure and familiarity, which may help reduce agitation and confusion during sundowning episodes. Maintain consistent mealtimes, activities, and bedtime routines to help regulate their internal clock and promote better sleep patterns.
- Establish a Calming Environment
Make adjustments to the physical environment to create a soothing atmosphere during the evening hours. Ensure the room is well-lit but not overly bright, as dim lighting can contribute to increased confusion. Reduce noise and stimulation by playing soft music, using white noise machines, or implementing calming activities such as gentle stretching or listening to audiobooks.
- Use Validation and Reassurance
When a person with sundowning experiences increased agitation or confusion, it is crucial for caregivers and family members to provide comfort, validation and reassurance. Acknowledge their feelings and validate their experiences by using phrases like, “I understand that you’re feeling anxious right now.” Reassure them that they are safe and not alone.
- Distract and Redirect as Needed
If the person becomes agitated or restless during sundowning, caregivers can use distraction and redirection techniques by offering engaging activities or tasks that capture their attention and redirect their focus. This can include listening to calming music, working on or discussing a favorite hobby, looking at photo albums, or performing some light exercises.
What else should caregivers know about sundowning?
It’s essential for caregivers to remember to be patient, understanding, and compassionate when supporting someone with sundowning. Also, always make sure that they are safe and unable to ever harm themselves if having a particularly rough episode.
Blue Water Homecare senior at-home care professionals provide extensive dementia care and support to families who are affected by this condition.
Contact Blue Water Homecare Today
For more information, please call 512-872-2955 or contact us online for a free in-home assessment or a consultation. Let us introduce your family to the Blue Water family and show you how your loved one can continue to live life comfortably, and safely, at home.