Tips on How to deal with sundown Syndrome
Caregivers, especially those caring for seniors in memory care, often experience challenges with residents experiencing Sundown Syndrome. This ailment affects many older adults in the mid to late stages of Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia. Sundown Syndrome can cause feelings of confusion, agitation, and overwhelming sadness, potentially resulting in actions that cause injury to themselves or others.
What triggers it?
Sundowning symptoms will likely appear as the day progresses and particularly when the sun starts to go down. There are known events that can trigger Sundowning. These include:
Fatigue and lack of sleep
Too much stimulation or activity later in the day
Internal or hormonal imbalances
Changes in lighting associated with the time of day
Disorienting or new routines
Tips to best manage Sundown Syndrome symptoms
Establish a routine – Maintaining a regular sleeping schedule and patterns can prevent unexpected changes that lead to the excessive commotion.
Offer comfort: Whether that is an object, favorite TV show, or song, sometimes familiarity can help calm and relax a person experiencing anxious or restless behavior.
Provide light: By maintaining brighter light levels as daylight fades, you can eliminate anxiety caused by the inability to see in the dark, which may disorient a resident.
Utilize activities – Simple tasks or activities can redirect thinking and reduce confusion or insecurity.
Seek medical attention - Physical ailments can exacerbate symptoms. There is potential that prescription medication or natural supplements can be used to help residents relax.
Sundown Syndrome is a common clinical phenomenon experienced by many loved ones in memory care, especially in the late afternoon, evening, or night. By understanding triggers, creating more structure around their day, and offering comfort, lighting, and activities with these in mind, we can provide the support these residents need.