A Caregiver’s Guide To Sundowning In People With Alzheimer’s

Sundowning symptoms in individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult for caregivers to manage, as they occur at the end of the day when the caregiver could be tired, but the individual remains awake and agitated. Knowing how to manage these symptoms can be beneficial for both the patient and caregiver, as sleep disturbances are a common occurrence in these conditions, and while there is no cure for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, better management can greatly help.

Balfour Senior Living explains what sundowning can look like and some tips on how caregivers can provide the best Alzheimer’s care.

What Does Sundowning Look Like?

While the exact cause of sundowning is not fully understood, it is believed that Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia may damage the part of the brain responsible for regulating a person’s internal clock, also known as their circadian rhythm. Sundowning usually affects individuals in the mid-to-late stages of these conditions, and the symptoms often become more severe over time. As the sleep-wake cycle is disturbed, individuals may experience increased daytime napping and a hard time going to sleep at night.

Here are some common symptoms of sundowning you may see in people. It’s important to note that sundowning affects everyone differently, so they may not all experience the same symptoms.

1. Confusion: Sundowning can cause increased confusion and disorientation, making it difficult for individuals to understand their surroundings or communicate with others.

2. Restlessness and Agitation: Some people with sundowning may become more agitated or restless as the day goes on, potentially due to a disrupted sleep-wake cycle or changes in their routine.

3. Anxiety and Irritability: Sundowning can also cause increased anxiety and irritability, leading to difficulty managing emotions and behavior.

4. Hallucinations and Delusions: Some people with sundowning may experience hallucinations or delusions, such as seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, which can be frightening or confusing.

5. Wandering and Pacing: Sundowning may also lead to increased wandering or pacing behavior, which can be dangerous if the person becomes disoriented or lost.

How A Caregiver Can Manage Sundowning

Set A Routine

It is recommended to establish a routine for individuals with sundowning syndrome. This routine may include consistent times for waking up, going to bed, eating meals, and engaging in physical activity. Planning outings, appointments, and social visits for earlier in the day when the person is more alert can help reduce the risk of triggering symptoms for people who need Alzheimer’s care

Additionally, scheduling bath time in the morning may be preferable as it can be less disruptive to the person’s sleep-wake cycle. By establishing a predictable routine, seniors who are sundowning may feel more secure and less anxious, which can help reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.

A senior who needs professional Alzheimer’s care at a senior living facility, such as Balfour Senior Living, can greatly benefit from it as the trained nursing staff can help them to maintain their daily routines.

Steer Clear Of Stimulants

Consuming caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol can negatively impact sleep quality and potentially contribute to sundowning symptoms. It is therefore recommended to minimize or avoid these substances, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. Adjusting meal sizes and complexity may also be beneficial. Having a larger meal for lunch and a smaller, simpler meal for dinner can help avoid indigestion or discomfort that may lead to sleep disturbances.

Look For Frequent Patterns

Sundowning symptoms can be triggered by changes in the environment, as well as factors such as loud noises, fatigue, discomfort, and mentally or physically taxing activities. If you provide Alzheimer’s care, it may be helpful to keep track of these triggers to identify patterns that contribute to the onset of symptoms.

A journal or phone can be used to record these observations and identify trends in symptom development. By monitoring triggers and identifying patterns, it may be possible to make adjustments to daily routines or the environment to reduce the frequency or severity of symptoms.

Reduce Stimulation

To promote a calm and restful environment for individuals with sundowning when providing Alzheimer’s care, several measures can be taken. This may include dimming the lights in the home, lowering blinds or curtains, and playing soft, calming music or using calming scents to encourage relaxation and drowsiness. Adjusting the room temperature to a comfortable level can also be helpful in promoting a restful atmosphere.

Additionally, adding a white noise machine that provides a constant and soothing sound may help to reduce external noise and promote relaxation. By creating a soothing environment, individuals with sundowning may be better able to fall asleep and experience improved sleep quality, potentially reducing the severity of symptoms.

Things To Do As A Caregiver

Caring for an individual experiencing sundowning symptoms can be a challenging and overwhelming experience for caregivers. To better cope with these situations, caregivers can try the following methods for people who need Alzheimer’s care:

1. Let them move.

If the individual feels the need to get up and walk or pace, do not attempt to restrict their movement. Stay close by to ensure their safety while they move.

2. Prioritize safety.

Use night lights to improve visibility, consider using gates to block stairways, and install motion detectors or door sensors to ensure the individual’s safety.

3. React calmly.

Speak in calm tones and avoid reacting negatively, arguing, or shouting, as these responses can potentially trigger symptoms.

4. Make sure they get what they need.

Communication can be affected in the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, so asking if they need anything, such as a drink or assistance with using the restroom, can help to address unmet needs.

By implementing these strategies, caregivers may be able to better manage sundowning symptoms and provide a more comfortable and reassuring environment for the individual in their care.

Trusted Alzheimer’s Care At Balfour Senior Living

If you feel that your loved one can benefit from Alzheimer’s care at a senior living facility, reach out to our staff today to inquire about our memory care services at Balfour Senior Living.