Activities for Sundowners

Sundown Syndrome is typically associated with senior citizens experiencing mental challenges associated with dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. People who are affected can experience confusion, agitation, aggression, hallucinations and extreme depression that coincides with the daily setting of the sun. Employ techniques recommended by the Cleveland Clinic, Alzheimer's Association and Aging Care to make this time more bearable for the person with sundown syndrome.

Timing of Meals

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, you can schedule meals to assist in calming the agitation associated with sundown syndrome. Avoid sweets and caffeine in the afternoon or evening hours. Try scheduling a meal during the early evening hours as an activity accompanied by decaffeinated tea or warm milk to help keep the person busy and relaxed.

Naps and Sleeping

• If you find that the person affected with sundown syndrome falls asleep while sitting on a couch or in a chair, let them sleep. Don't try to wake them to go into another room to go to bed. Make certain they are safe and let them be until they wake on their own. Stay in the room or check on them frequently if you feel they may be startled when they wake. If it comforts the person, gently hold their hand as they are falling asleep.

Lights and Activity

• Close drapes prior to the sunset and illuminate the house to make it bright before it gets dark outside. Avoid getting in situations where the person affected can watch the sun go down. During this time, turn on some well-loved music, a upbeat movie or a favorite television show. Try to find shows and movies that feature bright and light settings. If the person is active, engage them in a physical activity. Do chair aerobics or practice yoga with the guidance of a video. Try a game on Wii such as bowling or golf. Keep excessive noise down, but do something the person enjoys. The exercise will benefit the person in two ways. First it will divert their attention during the sundown period and secondly it will help them get a better night's sleep.

Scheduling

• Keeping a consistent schedule that the person can understand helps with the affects of sundown syndrome. A written schedule is helpful for those who can still understand them. Turn up the lights and engage them in an activity typically scheduled for that time of day. Read the person a story if they can no longer read on their own or schedule early evening hours as a time to get on pajamas.