A loved one with dementia may become restless, confused, or anxious later in the day, even if they've been calm earlier. This behavior, known as sundowning in seniors, may become more noticeable during fall and winter as daylight hours decrease. Senior Helpers has worked with many families facing these changes, and we're sharing practical ways to make evenings easier and when to discuss symptoms with a doctor.

What Sundowning in Seniors Looks Like

Sundowning refers to confusion, agitation, anxiety, or restlessness that begins or worsens in the late afternoon and evening. Some seniors may pace or head for the front door, while others may become tearful, suspicious, or easily startled by familiar sounds.

These behaviors can be confusing for family members, especially when they seem to come on without an obvious reason. Recognizing that they may be related to sundowning can help you respond calmly and look for patterns in your loved one's behavior.

What May Contribute to Evening Changes

Several factors may contribute to sundowning, including tiredness, fading light, hunger, pain, a full bladder, and disrupted sleep. Brain changes caused by Alzheimer's disease may also affect the body's internal clock and sleep-wake cycle. Although the exact causes aren't fully understood, several factors may influence sundowning in seniors, affecting their comfort, sleep, and daily routines.

Always discuss new, sudden, or severe confusion in senior loved ones with a doctor. Changes in behavior can also be caused by an infection, medication side effect, or untreated pain and may need medical attention.

Ways to Make Evenings More Comfortable

A few adjustments to the home and daily routine may make late afternoons and evenings easier for your loved one. Consider trying these approaches:

• Turn on lights before dusk: Keep rooms well-lit as daylight fades and close curtains to reduce reflections and shadows that may cause confusion.
• Keep afternoons calm: When possible, schedule appointments, baths, and visitors earlier in the day. Leave time for quieter activities later, such as listening to familiar music, folding towels, or looking through photo albums.
• Maintain familiar routines: Regular meal and bedtime schedules can provide consistency. Avoid late-day caffeine, and ask the doctor whether anything may be affecting your loved one's sleep.
• Respond calmly to distress: Use a gentle voice and avoid arguing or correcting your loved one when they're confused. Try redirecting their attention to a familiar activity, a snack, or a favorite television program.

The Alzheimer's Association's caregiving resources offer additional information for families supporting someone with dementia.

Don't Overlook Your Own Need for Rest

Caring for someone during difficult evenings can affect your own sleep and well-being. If possible, ask a relative or trusted friend to cover an evening so you can take a break. You might also consider respite care if you need more regular time away from caregiving duties.

Keeping a simple record of when changes occur and what happened beforehand can also be useful. Note things like missed naps, busy afternoons, meals, or changes in sleep. Share these observations with your loved one's doctor to help identify possible patterns and discuss appropriate next steps.

Support with Daily Care for Loved Ones with Dementia

Sundowning in seniors can make evening routines more difficult for older adults and their families. Senior Helpers Northwest Hartford offers in-home care for seniors living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Caregivers can provide support with daily routines and companionship, giving family members time to rest or attend to other responsibilities. Contact us to discuss care options in Avon, Enfield, Windsor, Windsor Locks, and Canton.