Many mysteries come with caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s, and while many you can prepare yourself for, there are some aspects to the disease that are unknown or hard to identify. Sundown Syndrome falls into this category. Thought to be caused by the fading light, Sundown Syndrome causes Alzheimer’s patients to be restless, confused, or any manner of upset. These behaviors can even escalate to something more violent such as yelling, imagining sounds or visuals, and severe mood swings.
When someone is ‘sundowning,’ it can be tough to address the needs they have at that moment, especially because doctors aren’t sure of the Sundown Syndrome’s causes. While we can’t predict the exact triggers for this condition, experts have come up with moods or stressors that may increase the likelihood of sundowning.
- Too tired
- Hungry or thirsty
- Depressed
- In pain
- Bored
- Having sleep problems
However, none of the above directly link to Sundown Syndrome, and even abstract concepts can trigger sundowning, such as coming out of a dream or increased shadows in the house. Even a caregiver’s mood can affect someone with Alzheimer’s disease.
The best practice for preventing or easing Sundown Syndrome is to look for patterns in someone’s episodes and prevent these triggers or make them more manageable. Keeping a consistent routine can also do wonders for people with this syndrome, and scheduling appointments or bigger tasks earlier in the day are easy solutions as well.
You can also
- Use daylight bulbs
- Get them outside during the day
- Avoid demanding or complex tasks before or during this time of day.
- Encourage a 30-minute nap in the afternoon
- Have them listen to their favorite song 30 minutes before they usually start sundowning.
- Limit activities that affect sleep, such as too much caffeine or eating too late in the day.
- Keep a comfortable temperature in the house in the evening.
- Read or go for short walks.
Overall, look for ways to bring the care-recipient peace at dusk.
Always remember, the BEST thing to do is remain calm during these outbursts, don’t argue but instead reassure them that everything is going to be okay. Stay close if they want to move around and keep their space safe with blocked stairs, nightlights, and locks on the door.
You can also reach out to a doctor if nothing is helping, as they’ll be able to tell if the agitation is due to medication.
Sundown Syndrome is often disheartening, but patience is key. Make sure to take time for yourself during these difficult times and reach out to loved ones or professionals for help to ease the process.
