Sundowning, also known as "late-day confusion," is a common phenomenon affecting many people with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. It's characterized by increased agitation, confusion, and restlessness in the late afternoon or early evening, often causing distress for both seniors and their caregivers. By understanding the connection between sundowning and sleep, we can develop strategies to better manage these symptoms and improve the quality of life for seniors.
Understanding the Connection Between Sundowning and Sleep
The exact cause of sundowning is not entirely understood, but several factors contribute to its occurrence.
One possible cause of sundowning is the disruption of the internal body clock, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle. As we age, our body's production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, can become irregular. This, in turn, can lead to sleep disturbances and poor sleep quality, exacerbating sundowning symptoms. Likewise, sundowning can cause insomnia, making it all the more important to promote good sleep hygiene.
Environmental factors also play a role in sundowning. For example, reduced lighting in the evening can lead to increased agitation and anxiety in seniors, particularly those with visual impairments. Many individuals become more disoriented and restless when transitioning between daytime activities and preparing for bedtime, particularly if their sleep schedule is inconsistent.
Poor sleep's impact on cognitive function and mood are significant. Seniors who experience fragmented or insufficient sleep may struggle with memory, attention, and overall cognitive performance, making them more prone to sundowning symptoms.
Strategies for Managing Sundowning and Improving Sleep
Here are some tried-and-true tips for alleviating sundown syndrome in seniors with dementia, including Alzheimer's:
Stay on Schedule
Encourage your loved ones to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends. This regularity can help reinforce their body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep quality.
Creating a relaxing bedtime routine can also make a significant difference. Engaging in calming activities, such as reading, listening to soft music, or practicing gentle stretches, can help seniors wind down and prepare for a restful night's sleep.
Enhance Lighting During the Day
Insufficient daytime light, whether natural or artificial, contributes to sundowning in the late afternoon or evening. Consider using light therapy, including daylight-balanced lightboxes or time spent outdoors in the sunshine.
Keep a Sleep Journal
Another helpful strategy is tracking sleep patterns through sleep journaling. Encourage your senior loved ones to note when they go to bed when they wake up, and any instances of nighttime waking or disturbances. This information can help identify patterns and areas for improvement in their sleep habits.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment
Ensure the senior's bedroom is well-lit before bedtime, which can help reduce confusion and anxiety. Additionally, minimizing noise and distractions and maintaining a comfortable temperature can contribute to a more restful sleep.
More Tips for Supporting Seniors With Sundowning
Provide reassurance and comfort during episodes of sundowning. Speak calmly and patiently, offering gentle reminders to help reduce confusion.
Senior Helpers Vero Beach Can Assist With Sundowning
If you think your senior loved one needs professional help, or you need additional support, don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare providers, in-home care specialists, or local support groups.
If you live in Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, or Okeechobee and need assistance with providing memory care for a senior loved one or respite care for yourself, Senior Helpers Vero Beach is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our in-home care services and how we can support your family.