Sundowning is a common and sometimes challenging issue for older people with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia to deal with. Simply put, sundowning refers to a pattern of growing confusion, agitation, or restlessness that usually happens in the late afternoon or early evening. When it occurs, it can make caregiving more difficult and stressful for loved ones, not to mention how it impacts the senior themselves. Fortunately, with the right Alzheimer’s home care strategies in place, both seniors and their loved ones can face the situation head-on.
Understanding Sundowning
Sundowning can present in many different ways. Some seniors might pace, while others become irritable, experience mood swings, or even feel scared and anxious. It is unknown exactly why, but many studies suggest changes in the brain that affect the body’s internal clock are to blame. Being worn out, being hungry, or being overstimulated all day can also play a role. Families can plan and make sure the home is calmer and more supportive to help keep sundowning at bay.
The Importance of Routine
Caregivers trained in Alzheimer’s home care can also help establish daily routines. When seniors with memory loss know what to expect, they often feel safer. For instance, having regular meal times, enjoying the same activities, and going to bed at the same time every night can help seniors feel less confused and keep their energy levels steady. Additionally, family members may find it helpful to plan difficult tasks, like bathing or going to the doctor, for earlier in the day when the senior is usually more awake and comfortable.
Proper Lighting Matters
It might seem strange, but appropriate lighting can also help soothe seniors and reduce sundowning behaviors. When the sun goes down, shadows can be confusing, and not being able to see well can make seniors feel more anxious. Keeping the house well-lit at night, especially in hallways and shared spaces, can make it feel warm and safe. Some common Alzheimer’s home care strategies include using soft, warm-toned lights or light therapy lamps to mimic natural sunlight and help seniors’ internal clocks stay stable.
Creating Calm Spaces
As mentioned above, making the home environment calm is key to helping seniors tackle the nighttime hours. This might include lowering the volume on the television or turning it off altogether in favor of peaceful music. Seniors might also enjoy having a book read to them or simply having a quiet conversation.
Building a Support System
For many families, professional Alzheimer’s home care goes beyond helping with sundowning. Trained caregivers can help cook meals, do the grocery shopping, and be a consistent companion for seniors when loved ones need to take care of other tasks or simply need a break. They also provide emotional support and companionship, which can help seniors be less stressed.
Trained caregivers are also a valuable resource for family members, helping them understand the disease and how to better manage sundowning episodes, as well as providing them with resources such as support groups where they can meet with other family caregivers who might be struggling with the same issues.
Sundowning can be challenging, but with the help of Alzheimer’s home care professionals, families feel supported, and seniors feel calmer, which not only reduces confusion and frustration but also helps make the evenings enjoyable for all.
Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22840-sundown-syndrome
https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/sleep-issues-sundowning
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/sundowning/faq-20058511
If you or an aging loved one is considering Alzheimer’s Home Care Services in Irvine, CA, please call the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Canaan Home Care – A Premier Provider of Senior Home Care in the La Jolla, Del Mar, San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, and Manhattan Beach areas.
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