How to Treat Sundowning Syndrome

Sundowning syndrome is not technically a disease. It is a set of symptoms that commonly occur in people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Sundowning syndrome involves a period of confusion that takes place near the end of the day, usually lasting into the night. Other symptoms include anxiety, wandering, paranoia, disorientation, aggression, and agitation. While there is no known cause, and there are no medications approved to treat sundowning syndrome, the symptoms can be eased with a few changes in routine.

Things You'll Need

• Nightlights

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Identify and eliminate any possible triggers for sundowning syndrome in your loved one. Low lighting, fatigue, and shadows have all been associated with increased disorientation and confusion in patients with dementia.

• 2

  Limit sugar and caffeine to the early part of each day. These can prevent sleep, increase anxiety and paranoia, and result in disorientation, especially in the elderly.

• 3

  Plan activities during daylight hours to increase sun exposure and encourage sleepiness at an appropriate time of night. Avoid exercise and other forms of physical stimulation after 3:00 in the afternoon.

• 4

  Place nightlights throughout the house to reduce darkness and confusion. Many patients with dementia react aggressively to unfamiliar surroundings, and darkness can trigger feelings of unfamiliarity and insecurity.

• 5

  Serve dinner early, especially larger meals. Ideally, large meals should be eaten before dark, but a small snack can be eaten before bed. Eating a large meal right before bed will prevent restful sleep and increase the risk of sundowning syndrome.

• 6

  Give your loved one a familiar object or photograph to take with him on hospital stays or when a trip is scheduled. This will ease anxiety and foster a sense of familiarity.

• 7

  Maintain a structured routine as much as possible. It is reassuring to a patient with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia to know what to expect throughout the day and night. Try to keep waking, bedtime, and meal times the same every day, and avoid making any big changes in routine. Avoid traveling as much as possible.