Sundowning is a term many seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer's may have come across, but what exactly does it mean? Coping with the symptoms of sundowning can be challenging. However, knowing the signs and taking steps to address them can make a significant difference in the daily lives of seniors and their loved ones. Learn more about this common phenomenon, its impact, and the various coping strategies to help make the evenings more comfortable and enjoyable.
Symptoms of Sundowning
Sundowning typically affects individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, and its symptoms tend to worsen as the day progresses, especially during the late afternoon and evening. Some common symptoms of sundowning include:
- Increased confusion and disorientation: Seniors may have difficulty recognizing familiar faces, and surroundings, or performing everyday tasks.
- Agitation and restlessness: They may become increasingly irritable, anxious, or fidgety.
- Mood swings: Rapid shifts between happiness, sadness, or anger can occur without apparent reason.
- Fearfulness and paranoia: Seniors may become suspicious and fearful of situations or people they once trusted.
- Wandering: They may start pacing or trying to leave their homes, increasing the risk of getting lost or injured.
Causes and Triggers of Sundowning
While the exact cause of sundowning is still unclear, several factors may contribute to or exacerbate its symptoms:
- Fatigue: As the day progresses, seniors may become increasingly tired, which can worsen confusion and disorientation.
- Low lighting and shadows: Dim lighting during evening hours can create shadows that may be misinterpreted or cause fear.
- Disruption of internal body clock: Alzheimer's may affect the internal body clock, causing sleep-wake cycle disturbances and increased confusion during the evening.
- Hunger and thirst: Unmet needs for food or drink can contribute to agitation and irritability.
- Medication side effects: Some medications may have side effects that worsen sundowning symptoms, especially if taken in the evening.
Self-Management Strategies for Sundowning
Taking proactive steps to manage symptoms of sundowning can help improve seniors' quality of life and alleviate stress for caregivers. Some helpful strategies include:
- Establish a consistent daily routine: Following a predictable schedule for meals, activities, and bedtime can help reduce confusion and anxiety.
- Ensure adequate exposure to natural light during the day: Encourage outdoor activities or arrange seating near windows to help regulate the internal body clock.
- Create a calm and soothing environment in the evening: Reduce noise and distractions, and use soft, calming lighting to promote relaxation.
- Limit caffeine and sugar intake in the afternoon and evening: These substances can interfere with sleep and worsen agitation.
- Engage in relaxing activities before bedtime: Gentle activities such as reading, listening to soft music, or taking a warm bath can help ease the transition to sleep.
- Encourage physical activity during the day: Regular exercise can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Third-Party Support for Sundowning
Seek help from healthcare providers and other support services to effectively manage sundowning symptoms:
- Informing your senior loved one's doctor of evening anxiety and symptoms: Discussing the symptoms with a healthcare professional can help identify potential treatment options or medication adjustments.
- Hiring a caregiver for evening companionship and assistance: A professional caregiver can provide support, supervision, and companionship during challenging evening hours.
- Exploring adult daycare programs or support groups: These programs can provide social interaction, mental stimulation, and support for seniors and caregivers.
- Utilizing respite care services for temporary relief: Respite care can offer short-term breaks for caregivers, ensuring they can rest and recharge.
Senior Helpers Chattanooga Assists Seniors in Managing Sundowning Symptoms
Understanding and managing the symptoms of sundowning is crucial for seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer's and their caregivers. By implementing self-management strategies and seeking help from healthcare providers and support services, seniors can better cope with their symptoms and maintain a higher quality of life. If you or a loved one live in the Chattanooga, Hixson, Cleveland, Red Bank, Signal Mountain, or Ooltewah areas and need assistance managing sundowning symptoms, don't hesitate to contact Senior Helpers Chattanooga. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate this challenging journey with expert care and support.