Major Symptoms of Sundowning

Sundowning is most likely to impact those suffering from Alzheimer's and other kinds of dementia. However, older persons who do not have dementia may develop it while in the hospital. The absence of sensory stimulation in a hospital ward might cause patients to get confused.

Fremont, CA: Sundowning is a collection of symptoms many people with dementia experience in the late afternoon and early evening. It is characterized by disorientation, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, roaming, and hallucinations.  

Sundowning symptoms affect up to two out of every three patients who have Alzheimer's disease. Though they can occur at any stage of the illness, they are more frequent in the intermediate and late stages. The cause appears to be fading light. The symptoms might worsen throughout the night and generally improve by the morning.  

You may not be able to prevent sundowning, but you can assist in managing this difficult time of day so you and your family can sleep better.

Someone who is sundowning may exhibit a variety of symptoms. These are some of the most prevalent.

Mood Changes

You may notice a shift in your loved one's demeanor later in the day. Someone who was once calm has suddenly become nervous. A person who was formerly docile may turn aggressive, even violent. They may weep or scream.

Confusion

Confusion is a common symptom of dementia, but it can worsen when the light goes down. The individual may be unaware of their current location or the day, and it may be more difficult for them to continue or follow a discussion than earlier in the day.

It is typical for individuals to roam inside or outside their homes when the sun sets. Some individuals stalk or follow their caregivers wherever they go.

Agitation

Dementia patients may feel more agitated in the afternoon or late hours, and you may have problems calming them down. Agitation might make it difficult for the person to fall asleep.

Hallucinations

Dementia patients may see, hear, or smell things that are not real. For example, people may claim to see a giant frog on the wall or believe a deceased relative is in the room. Dementia-related brain degeneration causes hallucinations, which usually occur in the evenings.  

Some Alzheimer's patients suffer from delusions or mistaken beliefs. They may believe that a neighbor keeps stealing from them or that government surveillance is tracking their every move.