Sundowning

“Sundowning” refers to people who become increasingly confused at the end of the day and into the night. It’s not a disease, but it is a symptom that often occurs in people with dementia. The cause is not known, but factors that may aggravate late-day confusion include fatigue, low lighting, and increased shadows.

The Mayo Clinic staff offer these tips for reducing this type of disorientation:

·Encourage a midafternoon nap or quiet time.
·Keep a night light on to reduce agitation that occurs when surroundings are dark or unfamiliar.
·In a strange setting such as a hospital, bring familiar items such as photographs or a radio from home.

People with Alzheimer’s often want to go home or to check on their children in the afternoon. Their behaviors for that time of day in the past will often be triggered, and they will want to repeat them now. For example, if the loved one formerly started preparing the evening meal about 6:00 p.m., then he or she will often feel that it is urgent to “get home and start dinner.”

Some distracting activity at this time may be helpful. Pop often takes Mom for a ride around the neighborhood for a few minutes when she begins wanting to go home. Usually, after a short ride, she is satisfied to be “back home” when they return to the house.

www.MayoClinic.com is a good site to find answers for health questions.