Happy 2012! The holidays have come and gone and winter has arrived with it's dreary days. Because the days are shorter at this time of the year, those folks who have dementia and suffer from Sundown Syndrome are at risk for additional behaviors.
This month we are giving you some information from the blog Aaging Better In-Home Care at www.aagingbetter.com to assist caregivers in coping with Sundown Syndrome.
Alzheimer’s disease brings on many troubling scenarios that patients and families must learn to deal with. One such scenario is called sundown syndrome, or episodes of confusion, anxiety or agitation that often occur in the evening hours, lasting from a few hours to throughout the night.The cause of sundown syndrome is unknown, but there are some contributing factors that experts have noticed, including:
- Physical or mental exhaustion
- An upset internal clock – mix-up between day and night
- Medication that causes agitation or confusion
- Inability to separate dreams from reality when sleeping
- Less need for sleep
Sundown syndrome is a taxing ailment both for the patient and his or her caregivers. However, there are several ways in which to help a loved one experiencing sundown syndrome cope, including:
- Help the person relax in the evening; try decaffeinated tea or warm milk.
- Close the blinds or drapes so that the person does not notice it becoming dark outside.
- Distract the person with activities he or she enjoys.
- Discourage afternoon napping and plan activities instead so that the person will rest well at night.
Sundown syndrome typically peaks in the mid-stages of the disease and diminishes as it progresses. In the meantime, caregivers should ensure that the home is secure and safe, particularly if the senior tends to wander.
