Sundowning is a state of confusion that occurs in the late afternoon and can last into the night. While it’s often associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, the exact cause remains unclear. This article offers practical strategies to help you manage and reduce evening agitation in a senior loved one.
Maintain a Consistent Routine
A predictable daily schedule can anchor your loved one when he or she is experiencing sundowning. When daily activities—such as waking up, eating meals, and going to bed—happen at the same time each day, it can reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Keep days structured – Plan a consistent schedule for meals, medication, and activities.
- Avoid napping – If naps are necessary, keep them short and not too close to bedtime to ensure they don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.
- Engage in familiar activities – Incorporate familiar and calming activities into the late afternoon, like listening to gentle music or looking through photo albums.
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Adjust Lighting and Environment
Changes in light can trigger sundowning symptoms. As natural light fades in the late afternoon, the shadows and darkness can cause confusion and fear. Creating a well-lit and calm environment can ease this transition.
- Increase light – Close the curtains before dusk and turn on lights throughout the house to create a bright, cheerful environment. This can reduce shadows that may be frightening or confusing.
- Reduce noise – Minimize background noise from TVs, radios, or household appliances during the evening hours. Loud or competing noises can be overstimulating and increase agitation.
- Ensure safety – Keep the home safe and easy to navigate. Remove clutter, lock doors to unsafe areas, and consider using nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
Monitor Diet and Activity
Diet and physical activity play significant roles in managing sundowning. What your loved one eats and how active he or she is during the day can affect his or her mood and sleep patterns in the evening.
- Limit caffeine and sugar – Avoid serving caffeine and sugary foods, especially late in the day, as they can disrupt sleep and increase restlessness.
- Plan a large lunch and light dinner – A heavy evening meal can interfere with sleep. Opt for a larger meal at lunchtime and a lighter one for dinner.
- Encourage daily activity – Regular physical activity like a morning walk can promote better sleep at night. Avoid strenuous exercise in the late afternoon or evening, as it can be stimulating.
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Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance
Your approach can significantly influence your loved one’s mood when he or she is experiencing sundowning. Agitation can be contagious, but so can a sense of calm. It’s important to remain patient and supportive.
- Validate your loved one’s feelings – Acknowledge your loved one’s concerns or fears without arguing or trying to reason with him or her. You might say “I see that you’re worried” to show you understand.
- Use a gentle tone – Speak calmly and softly. Offer reassurance with a gentle touch or a hug if it’s welcomed.
- Redirect your loved one’s attention – If your loved one is agitated, try to distract him or her with a favorite snack, a simple activity, or a soothing conversation about a happy memory.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide dependable homecare services for Tucson seniors. You can turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for your aging loved one. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (520) 276-6555.