Sundowning

Alzheimer's Front Row

"Sundowning" refers to a state of confusion that usually occurs at dusk, at the end of day time, and into the early evening or at night.

Sundowning causes a variety of behaviors, such as confusion, anxiety, aggression, and the inability to follow directions Sundowning can also lead to pacing or wandering.

Sundowning: Late-day confusion - Mayo Clinic

11 Tips For Dealing With Sundowning and Dementia

Caregiver Tips for Dealing with Sundowning

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Sundowning and Anxiety in Elderly Alzhemer's Patients

Sundowning is a big problem for Alzheimer's caregivers. Patients can get aggressive and very disruptive

I found this research study interesting. I say this because I learned it is easier to deal with a problem and solve a problem if you first learn what is causing the problem. Understanding the cause of a problem provides a foundation on which a caregiver can build -- a necessary frame of reference.

Late day, early evening, anxiety and agitation is somewhat common in early dementia patients. The problem is often associated with "sundown" or the time before a person would normally go to bed. Time of year and length of day can make a difference.

This research interests me because "sundowning" usually comes in a pattern. Around the same time of day.