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COPING WITH SUNDOWNING
Sundowning is a dementia-related symptom that refers
to increased agitation, confusion and hyperactivity
that begins in the late afternoon and builds
throughout the evening. Most sundowning emerges in
mid-stage dementia and slowly worsens as the disease
progresses. What causes it? Dementia may damage the
body's internal clock, causing a disruption of
sleep-wake cycles. Secondly, individuals with
dementia become fatigued by their inability to
process information; the more hours spent on this
process, the more exhausted—and irritable—they may
become.
Tips:
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Plan activities or outings in the morning.
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Do only simple, calming activities in the
afternoon.
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Keep individuals awake during the day.
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Increase indoor lighting before dusk.
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Ensure that the individual is not suffering from
hunger, thirst, pain or fear.
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Correct potential causes with basic
interventions such as hydration and snacks.
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Remove excess stimuli and clutter.
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Watch for sundowning in early-stage dementia or
rapidly worsening symptoms, both of which may
suggest
delirium.
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Consult your doctor to see if medications may
help.
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Be twice as patient and kind during these hours.
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