Understanding Sundowning, pt. 1

You may notice that your elderly parents, or aging loved ones, seem to become agitated in the late afternoon or early evening hours. These seniors are most likely exhibiting “sundowning”. Symptoms can range from mild restlessness to more significant agitation or confusion. Underlying these behaviors is a condition of dementia.

If you care for someone with dementia, you may begin to notice certain behaviors become more difficult later in the day. A senior who seemed calm earlier may suddenly become confused, anxious, restless, or upset as evening approaches. In some cases, they may pace through the house, struggle to sleep, or become more emotional than usual. You are witnessing an elder with symptoms of sundowning, which commonly affects people with dementia.

Sundowning is a non-specific diagnosis. Rather, the condition encompasses a group of symptoms that may cause confusion, agitation, anxiety, or restlessness later in the day. Lighting, fatigue, overstimulation, and changes in sleep patterns may contribute to sundowning behaviors. Sundowning can affect sleep, safety, and emotional well-being for both seniors with dementia and their caregivers.

Providing the older adult with calm reassurance and consistent support can help caregivers manage difficult evenings. Minor adjustments to routines and the home environment may help reduce symptoms.

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