Caring for a senior loved one with Alzheimer's can be a challenging experience, especially when they experience sundowning. Sundowning is a common symptom of Alzheimer's that causes increased agitation, confusion, and restlessness during the late afternoon and evening hours.
As a caregiver, it's a good idea to understand the effects of sundowning on your evening routine and how it can impact not only your senior loved one but also other family members and aspects of your life. In this blog post, courtesy of Senior Helpers Lexington, we'll explore the effects of sundowning on a caregiver's evening routine and offer some solutions to help you manage this often difficult part of Alzheimer's care.
Effects of Sundowning on a Caregiver's Evening Routine
When a senior with Alzheimer's begins to experience sundowning, it can significantly impact a caregiver's evening routine. For example, one of the main challenges faced is the interruption of bedtime routines for young children. If a senior becomes agitated or restless during the evening, it may be difficult for the caregiver to focus on putting their children to bed. This can cause stress and disruption for the entire family.
Another area where sundowning can cause issues is during the transition to or from work. Caregivers who work outside the home may find themselves under increased stress due to having to deal with their senior loved one's agitation while also trying to focus on their job-related tasks. This can result in decreased productivity, increased anxiety, and overall strain on the caregiver's well-being.
Solutions to Help Caregivers Manage Sundowning Episodes
Despite the challenges presented by sundowning, there are several strategies caregivers can employ to help manage these episodes and ensure a smoother evening routine. Establishing a consistent evening regimen for the senior is essential for managing sundowning symptoms. Routines help provide a sense of security and familiarity, which can reduce agitation and confusion in seniors with Alzheimer's.
To create a calming evening routine, consider incorporating activities such as a soothing bath, listening to calming music, or engaging in simple, repetitive tasks like folding laundry. Additionally, ensure the senior's environment is calm and quiet to minimize external triggers for sundowning.
Another strategy for managing sundowning is employing calming techniques and activities. Gentle touch or massage, deep breathing exercises, and visual or auditory distractions such as watching TV or listening to an audiobook can help soothe the senior and alleviate their agitation. Caregivers should also remain calm and patient during sundowning episodes, as their stress or frustration can escalate the situation.
Hiring a Caregiver to Help Manage Sundowning
Hiring a professional caregiver to assist with evening care can significantly ease the burden on family caregivers. A professional caregiver can provide valuable support in managing sundowning symptoms by implementing effective calming techniques and overseeing the senior's evening regimen.
Get Senior Care Assistance From Senior Helpers
Understanding and managing the effects of sundowning on a caregiver's evening routine is crucial for ensuring a better quality of life for both the caregiver and the senior with Alzheimer's. By establishing a calming evening routine, utilizing calming techniques, and considering the support of a professional caregiver, it is possible to mitigate the challenges of sundowning.
If you live in the Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, or Shelbyville, KY areas and are seeking support for managing sundowning and providing evening care for your senior loved one, contact Senior Helpers Lexington today. Our team of experienced caregivers is dedicated to helping you and your family navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's care with compassion and expertise.