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Understanding Sundowning
Posted by Scott Cantin in caregiving tips, Senior Health | 0 comments
For people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, late afternoon and evening can be difficult times of day. The name for the restlessness, agitation, irritability, and confusion that often occurs during this time of day is sundowning. This phenomenon can continue into the night, which makes for a difficult time for Miami senior caregivers, as seniors can have trouble falling asleep.
If you have not experienced a senior suffering from sundowning in the past, it can be alarming and disorienting at first. Luckily, our team of senior home health care aides at Advancare has the experience and expertise needed to assist seniors who are suffering from sundowning and other symptoms of dementia.
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What is Sundowning?
Sundowning, also known as sundown syndrome, is a term used to describe a range of unusual behaviors in seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These symptoms occur during the transition from late afternoon to evening, hence the term sundowning. As many as one in five people with Alzheimer’s can experience sundowning. In some cases, seniors recovering from surgery in hospitals or unfamiliar environments will also experience sundowning.
The sundowning symptoms can continue into the night, and the restlessness can make it difficult for seniors to fall asleep at the proper time. As a result, the senior and their caregiver may have trouble functioning the following day.
What Triggers Sundowning?
Like many aspects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the exact causes of sundowning are not well understood by scientists and medical professionals. One possibility is that Alzheimer’s-related brain changes can affect a person’s biological clock, which leads to confused sleep-wake cycles. This is what could result in agitation and other behaviors associated with sundowning.
Additional triggers of sundown syndrome can include:
- Being overly tired
- Depression
- Pain
- Boredom
- Unmet needs such as hunger or thirst
Why Winter is Challenging for Sundowners
In some cases, the onset of the shorter days associated with winter can trigger sundowning. As the sun goes down earlier during the day, the quality of available light may diminish and shadows may increase, which makes it more difficult for seniors with diminished eyesight to see. This in turn increases the confusion and agitation.
Another reason why winter is challenging to sundowners is the onset of seasonal affective disorder, which is a common type of depression associated with shorter hours of daylight.
Dealing With Sundowning
Dealing with sundowning in a senior can be a difficult task. It is often best left to an Alzheimer’s care specialist from Advancare. Alzheimer’s care is physically and emotionally involved, and professional assistive care is crucial for the well-being of you and your senior.
Among the different types of Alzheimer’s and sundowning care provided by Advancare are:
- Grooming, bathing, and dressing
- Medication reminders
- Playing mind-stimulating games
- Caring companionship
Schedule Your Consultation Today
To learn about how our caregivers can assist your sundowning senior, contact Advancare at 305-441-9794.
