The Caring Corner®
Managing Sundowning in Your Loved Ones
Sundowning is a common behavior in people with dementia. It is characterized by confusion, anxiety, and agitation that often occurs in the late afternoon or early evening. There is no one cause of sundowning, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including changes in light levels, fatigue, and changes in routine.
There are a number of things that you can do to manage sundowning in someone with dementia. These include:
- Create a calm and quiet environment.Avoid loud noises and bright lights. If possible, keep the curtains closed and the lights dimmed.
- Maintain a regular routine.This will help to reduce confusion and anxiety. Try to have dinner and bedtime at the same time each day.
- Provide plenty of activities.This will help to keep the person with dementia occupied and reduce boredom. Try to find activities that the person enjoys and that are appropriate for their level of ability.
- Offer reassurance.Let the person with dementia know that you are there for them and that you understand what they are going through.
- Get help if needed.If the sundowning is severe, you may need to get help from a doctor or a caregiver.
By taking these steps, you can help to manage sundowning in someone with dementia and make their experience more comfortable.
Here are some additional tips on how to manage sundowning:
- Try to identify the cause of the sundowning.Is it caused by changes in light levels? Fatigue? Changes in routine? Once you know the cause, you can take steps to address it.
- Be patient and understanding.Sundowning can be frustrating for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to be patient and understanding.
- Get enough rest yourself.Caring for someone with dementia can be demanding. It is important to get enough rest so that you can be at your best.
- Seek professional help if needed.If you are struggling to manage sundowning, do not hesitate to seek professional help. There are many resources available to help you and your loved one.
