Sundowner's Syndrome and Sun Exposure

Numerous environmental, physical or psychological factors may cause Sundowner's Syndrome, which is sometimes called sundowning. Reduced exposure to sunlight may contribute to some cases of Sundowner's Syndrome.

Definition

• Sundowner's Syndrome is a condition typically experienced by elderly people with some form of dementia. As the sun begins to set, some patients may exhibit increased confusion, disorientation, agitation, anxiety or depression.

Sun Exposure

• ParentGiving.com suggests that increased exposure to sunlight in the morning may help to manage Sundowner's Syndrome by setting the patient’s internal clock. According to Caring.com, those with Sundowner's Syndrome may have disrupted patterns of sleeping and waking, which is regulated by an internal clock.

Light Therapy

• According to SundownerFacts.com, light therapy may treat some cases of Sundowner's Syndrome. Light therapy, which is also used to treat seasonal affective disorder, involves exposure to a special lamp or light box that emits a full spectrum light mimicking natural sunlight.

SAD

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically recurs in the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. According to SundownerFacts.com, Sundowner's Syndrome may co-exist with SAD and get worse during the winter months.

Considerations

• According to ParentGiving.com, diminished light in the evening may be only one possible cause of Sundowner's Syndrome. The side-effects of medication, fatigue, pain and hunger may also be contributing factors.