As we age, our bodies and minds undergo numerous changes. One intriguing phenomenon that affects older adults, particularly those with dementia, is the sundown effect or sundowner’s dementia.
Also known as sundowning or late-day confusion, this condition refers to a noticeable pattern of increased agitation, restlessness, and confusion experienced by older adults during the late afternoon and evening.
What is sundowner’s dementia?
The sundowning effect is a term used to describe the behavioral and cognitive changes observed in older adults, typically towards the end of the day. It manifests as various symptoms, including:
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Wandering
- Mood swings
- Delusions
These symptoms can significantly disrupt daily routines and adversely impact the overall well-being of individuals experiencing them.
The sundown effect not only takes a toll on individuals experiencing it but also negatively impacts their caregivers. The behavioral and cognitive changes during the evening hours can overwhelm caregivers, causing increased stress, frustration, and exhaustion.
The constant need for reassurance, dealing with agitation and aggression, and managing wandering behavior can be emotionally and physically draining. Caregivers may experience disrupted sleep patterns, decreased personal time, and difficulty maintaining their own well-being.
Signs of Sundowner’s Dementia
While the sundown effect can affect older adults without cognitive impairments, it is particularly common among individuals with dementia.
The correlation between dementia and the sundown effect are not yet fully understood. Sundowning symptoms can be triggered as easily as flipping a light switch by things such as:
Disruption of Circadian Rhythm
The circadian rhythm, often called our “internal clock,” regulates our sleep-wake cycle and various physiological processes. In individuals with dementia, this internal clock can become disrupted, leading to a mismatch between their sleep patterns and the natural day-night cycle. This disruption can frequently heighten the symptoms of the sundown effect during the evening, creating immense agitation.
Fatigue and Increased Sensitivity
People with dementia often experience increased fatigue as the day progresses due to mental and physical exertion. This exhaustion can amplify their sensitivity to their surroundings, leading to heightened agitation, confusion and anxiety during the evening hours.
Environmental Factors
Changes in the physical environment, such as diminishing light, increased shadows and unfamiliar noises can contribute to the sundown effect. These alterations can create a sense of disorientation and unease in individuals with dementia, further exacerbating their symptoms as the day transitions into the evening.
How to Effectively Manage Sundowning:
While there is no definitive cure for the sundown effect, several strategies can help manage its impact and improve the well-being of individuals affected by it. These include:
Consistent Daily Routine: Establishing a structured daily routine can provide a sense of familiarity and security. Consistency in mealtimes, activities, reduced caffeine and exposure to natural light can help regulate the internal clock and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Optimal Lighting: Ensuring adequate daytime lighting and gentle lighting in the evening can help individuals with dementia distinguish between day and night. This can alleviate confusion and minimize the impact of diminishing light during sundown.
Calming Environment: Creating a calm and soothing environment can help reduce anxiety and agitation. Minimizing noise levels, using soft colors, playing relaxing music and providing familiar objects can promote a sense of comfort and security.
Engaging Activities: Engaging individuals with dementia in mentally stimulating activities during the day can help reduce restlessness and prevent fatigue. Sometimes even a mid-day nap can throw off your balance, so make sure to remain active throughout the day. Activities like puzzles, music therapy and light exercise can improve sleep patterns and lessen the severity of the sundown effect.
Compassionate Memory Care: Understanding and providing empathetic care to individuals experiencing the sundown effect is crucial. Sometimes, a person who is agitated during sundowning could be communicating that they need something. Being patient and attentive, using a calm tone when speaking, and offering reassurance can help alleviate anxiety and manage challenging behaviors effectively.
It’s essential for caregivers to seek support, both from professionals and support groups, to navigate the challenges associated with sundowning and ensure they can provide the best possible care while also taking care of themselves. SYNERGY HomeCare is available to help you alleviate the stress that come with caregiving for a loved one with sundowning syndrome.
For more information on caring for a loved one with dementia, download SYNERGY HomeCare’s free Memory Care Guide.
SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or Contact us to talk to a Memory Care specialist.
