Coping with Sundowning Caused by Dementia
Many seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia get increasingly agitated or anxious in the evening. They may become aggressive, delusional, paranoid, or wander.
This behavior pattern is called “sundowning” because it usually starts in the late afternoon or early evening and may last into the night. It can be very disruptive and difficult for caregivers to manage and negatively affects your older adult’s quality of life.
8 Tips for Dealing with Dementia Sundowning and Sleep Issues
The Alzheimer’s Association has created a helpful infographic with eight expert tips for reducing sundowning and sleep issues.
These steps help manage and reduce dementia-related sundowning symptoms by keeping seniors on a regular schedule, creating a calm, soothing environment, and identifying triggers.
You might also like:
— Dressing Someone with Alzheimer’s: 9 Expert Tips [Infographic]
— 3 Ways to Respond When Someone with Alzheimer’s Says I Want to Go Home
— Why Experts Recommend Lying to Someone with Dementia
Image: SundownerFacts.com
About the Author
Connie is the founder of DailyCaring.com and was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also understands the importance of support, especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
Prevention is always better than cure. Practice good sleeping patterns and healthy lifestyle, and I’m sure you’re life will be more fit and healthy.
Thanks Sue Anne! It’s true that a healthy lifestyle helps improve quality of life.