Sundowning
Sundowning is a phenomenon often seen in individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia where behavioral changes, confusion, agitation, or restlessness worsen in the late afternoon or evening.
Example #1
For example, a person with Alzheimer's may become increasingly agitated, anxious, or confused as the day progresses towards evening. They may exhibit pacing, shouting, or difficulty sleeping during this time.
Example #2
Another example could be a dementia patient becoming more disoriented, seeing or hearing things that are not there, or having trouble communicating during the late afternoon or nighttime.
Misuse
Misusing the term 'sundowning' to label any behavioral changes in older adults without a proper diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia is unfair and misleading. It's essential to protect against this misuse as it may lead to unnecessary stigmatization and inappropriate interventions for individuals who do not actually have dementia-related sundowning.
Benefits
Understanding and recognizing sundowning behaviors can lead to tailored interventions and care strategies to help manage the symptoms effectively. For instance, adjusting the daily routine, creating a calming environment, or engaging in soothing activities during the evening can significantly reduce distress and improve the overall well-being of the individual experiencing sundowning.
Conclusion
By being aware of the phenomenon of sundowning in individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia, caregivers, healthcare providers, and family members can offer appropriate support and care during the challenging late afternoon and evening periods, promoting a more compassionate and understanding approach to addressing behavioral changes.