Sundown Syndrome is commonly associated with older adults that suffer from it in the evening and twilight hours. At this time in the morning, the patient may start to feel confused, agitated, and restless. It usually gets better by the morning, even though symptoms can worsen through the night.
Sundown Syndrome Symptoms
It may take a little time for sundowning patterns to become apparent. If you begin to notice sundowning behaviors at first, keep a journal of what time of day they usually appear and for how long. Sundown Syndrome symptoms can be observed as early as 3:30 pm and last until 11:00 pm, according to some reports. Your observations might reveal a pattern that could explain late-day confusion. The pattern might include small changes or major events. Caregivers, relatives, and friends can reduce the negative effects of Sundown Syndrome by understanding and recognizing its symptoms and triggers.
What Triggers Sundowning?
Although researchers are still studying sundowning causes, they know that certain triggers can exacerbate the symptoms; those who experience sundowning often experience insomnia during the night. Having an abnormal circadian rhythm may disrupt their sleep cycle, which ultimately causes extreme fatigue. It can be an extremely common cause of sundowning.
The most important thing to remember is that you will be able to help manage your loved one’s discomfort and fear once you begin to understand the possible causes or patterns associated with the Sundown Syndrome symptoms. Following are the events that can cause this condition:
Unfamiliar surroundings:
Someone who is unfamiliar with the surroundings or faced with a lot of stimulation might become confused, fearful, or anxious. You should avoid taking your children to unfamiliar places.
Dark places:
Especially for older adults who have poor vision, fading light causes a trigger. The sun setting earlier each day may also become more noticeable as winter approaches and daylight hours shorten.
Hormonal imbalances:
Biological disruption can contribute to confusion and anxiety at night and can alter a hormonal clock that might be already out of sync. Changing the clocks twice a year may aggravate the situation more.
Physical disruptions:
A trigger can be unsatisfied hunger or pain or sleep apnea. These issues are quite common and occur frequently in older adults, which involve dementia-type behaviors.
Boredom and restlessness:
Sleeping poorly can be caused by a lack of activity during the day and too much catnapping. Playing games, taking walks, or doing other slightly exhausting activities can make your loved one more energetic during the day, which can help improve their sleep and overall health.
How to manage Sundown Syndrome
Providing comfort and familiarity can help ease the anxiety that may accompany Sundown Syndrome, though you may not be able to prevent it entirely. To help your loved one, here are some suggestions:
Keep elderly busy:
You can prevent late-day confusion by having a routine for bedtime, breakfast, lunch, and other daily activities. Make sure surprises are minimized when it comes to everyday life and visitors should avoid late visits.
Appropriate diet:
It is important to manage their caffeine and sugar intake, as an overdose can disrupt their entire routine. Also, ensure that they do not consume alcohol or eat large meals right before bedtime, in order to reduce agitation or confusion and promote better sleep.
Keep it comfortable:
When watching television, listening to the radio, or using other gadgets in the evening, turn down the background noise. In addition, using a nightlight or turning up the dim lights can help reduce confusion and agitation.
Avoid stressful activities:
It is common for confusion and irritability to result from stress and frustration. You can help keep the elderly comfortable through a nonstressful, calm environment, such as by playing soft music. In addition, make the room less cluttered. Don’t overcrowd the place with family photos, blankets, or too many pillows. Keeping yourself calm and patient around the elderly will help you to manage and avoid sundowning triggers.
Make sure to remember that you must take good care of yourself when caring for a loved one with sundowners. Consider hiring outside help if you feel overwhelmed by the situation.
