Sundowners Syndrome: What It Is and How to Cope

If you are responsible for providing care to a loved one who suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s, then you have likely heard the term Sundowners Syndrome, or you have some familiarity with it. This condition is often characterized by some specific symptoms such as agitation, confusion, memory loss, and wandering once the sun goes down. Visiting Angels Home Care wants you to understand that stats on this syndrome and those stats say that 20% of elderly patients with Alzheimer’s experience this syndrome. In addition to those who have Alzheimer’s, Sundowners can affect those individuals who have spent a long time in the hospital and those who have dementia.

There are additional symptoms that can be experienced to include rapid changes in mood, crying, fear, anger, restlessness, stubbornness, and depression. While the causes of the syndrome are generally unknown, it is thought that there are some factors that may trigger the symptoms. Visiting Angels Home Care recommends that you speak with your loved one’s care team if you have any questions about the symptoms he or she maybe be exhibiting.

As a caregiver, you may be wondering just how you can help your loved one who is experiencing Sundowners Syndrome. Below, the Visiting Angels Home Care team will provide you with some steps you can take to help your loved one cope.

• Establish a regular routine. A routine can be put in place to help your loved one avoid surprises that may occur throughout the day. Seniors do not often like when surprises happen, as it catches them off guard and can lead to confusion and anxiety
• Plan out your loved one’s day as best as possible. It is recommended that your loved one have two activities maximum per day and that you plan the activities in the morning
• Watch what your loved one eats. There may be a correlation between the food that your loved one eats and the symptoms that they experience. You should help your loved one avoid caffeine and sugary foods, especially later on in the day
• Keep the home well lit up. This is a wonderful way to help your loved one out, especially in the evening time. A well-lit home will ensure your senior is safe and does not trip or fall
• Minimize the noise your loved one experiences in his or her home by turning off or down the electronics in the house to include the radio and the TV. This will help ensure that your loved one does not experience any anxiety or stress

If you are worried about your loved one or if you have any questions about Sundowners Syndrome, contact the professionals at Visiting Angels Home Care at your convenience.