Understanding Sundowning, pt. 5

What should families remember about Sundowning? Simply understanding what you are witnessing with your elderly parents is a first, important step.

Here are summary tips to remember:

— Sundowning is a group of symptoms that may occur later in the day in people with dementia.
— Common symptoms include confusion, agitation, pacing, wandering, and sleep disturbances.
— Calm routines, reassurance, and a comfortable environment may help reduce stress and confusion.
— Resources are available to help family caregivers who are caring for a loved one with dementia.

Sundowning can be stressful for both seniors and family caregivers, but calm routines, consistent support, and early recognition of triggers can help reduce confusion and improve quality of life.

Finally, there is an assistance program offered through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The program is called “Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE)”. It’s specifically designed to support caregivers of individuals with dementia. Covered services include care coordination, caregiver education, and respite care for family caregivers. The GUIDE Model provides Medicare payments for comprehensive dementia care and aims to improve the quality of life for people with dementia while reducing strain on unpaid caregivers. It means regular breaks without guilt or financial strain. The program connects caregivers with care navigators who understand this journey and can help them access resources they might not know exist.

Home Care Partners can help. Our care staff provides a wide range of in-home care services to support seniors with dementia and their families. Our professional caregivers can assist with companionship, medication reminders, transportation to appointments, homemaking, mobility support, and daily routines that help create a calmer environment during difficult evenings.

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