Dealing with senior sundowning in dementia can be a challenging experience for caregivers. As the sun begins to set, unforeseen changes in behavior may arise, disrupting the routine and peace of the household.
What Is Late-Day Confusion?
Sundowning, also known as late-day confusion, is often witnessed in individuals with Alzheimer's or Cognitive decline. It's characterized by restlessness, agitation, or confusion that starts in the late afternoon or early evening. The impact of evening agitation can be quite taxing, both for the golden-agers experiencing it and their caregivers.
Importance of Maintaining a Consistent Routine
One way to manage symptoms of senior sundowning in dementia is by maintaining a consistent daily routine, including regular sleep-wake cycles, meal times, and activity periods. Keeping familiar things or meals as touchstones throughout the daytime can help anchor it for older adults with major neurocognitive disorders.
Creating a Calming Environment
The environment plays a crucial role in managing late-day anxiety symptoms. As the comes to a close, minimizing changes in light and noise can help reduce anxiety and restlessness, common during evening agitation. Creating a peaceful, calming environment by reducing noise levels, drawing the curtains, and using soft, calming lights in the evening can help reduce the impact and frequency of episodes of early-evening confusion.
Using Distraction Techniques
Distraction techniques can help handle senior sundowning in dementia. Engage in simple, enjoyable tasks to distract from anxiety or confusion, such as listening to music, looking at photos, or doing a craft activity. Find engaging and comforting things to do that are not over-stimulating.
Managing Challenging Behaviors
Remember that evening agitation may cause challenging behaviors like pacing, wandering, or aggression. Stay calm, validate their feelings, and redirect their attention to alleviate the situation. These behaviors are symptoms, not a reflection of their character.
Promoting Relaxation
Relaxation techniques can play a substantial role in managing sundowning symptoms. A gentle massage, soft music, or a warm bath can help induce relaxation as the daylight fades. The goal is to foster a sense of calm and peace, helping to minimize anxiety and other symptoms of late-day confusion.
We Can Help Support Senior Sundowning in Dementia
Managing sunset syndrome in older retirees with neurocognitive impairment can be a challenging task. Relaxation techniques like massage, music, or a warm bath can help minimize evening agitation by inducing calm and peace.
If you reside in St. Charles, St. Peters, Chesterfield, Ballwin, or Jefferson County and need help managing these symptoms in your loved one, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Senior Helpers St. Charles. Our highly skilled and compassionate team is ready to support you.