Managing Sundowning Symptoms
Individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia tend to get increasingly confused, frustrated, and riddled with anxiety later in the day. Then there are others who have disturbed sleep patterns at night due to their disease.
These are symptoms of sundowning. They can be extremely stressful, and negatively impact your aging loved one's life.
Daily Caring says these symptoms occur in the afternoon or evening, hence the term 'sundowning.' Studies show that 20 percent of those with Alzheimer's or dementia are affected by sundowning.
"Scientists don’t know exactly why sundowning happens, but think that it’s caused by changes in the brain. Their body clock, which regulates when we’re awake and when we’re asleep, might be affected."
Sundowning symptoms include:
- Agitation
- Disorientation and confusion
- Suspicion
Look for:
- Pacing around the room
- Anger and yelling
- Mood swings
Ways to manage and reduce symptoms:
- Keep track of their behavior
- Look for patterns
- Ensure their basic needs are taken care of
- Reduce distractions, shadows, and noise
- Create and stick with a daily routine
- Make the environment relaxing
Find out more on reducing and managing sundowning symptoms by reading the entire Daily Caring article here: https://ow.ly/s0K730fFBih
How are you coping with your aging loved one's sundowning symptoms? Let us know in the comments section below.