My mother has Alzheimer’s disease, and lately she seems to become more disoriented in the late afternoon and early evening. Can you explain this new behavior?
A: Your mother is most likely experiencing a very common syndrome, clinically known as “sundowning.” In the evening and night hours after sundown, 20 percent of people living with Alzheimer’s will at some point experience periods of increased confusion, disorientation, anxiety, agitation, restlessness, insecurity, suspicion, delusions, and hallucinations. The reason for this syndrome is unknown, but many experts believe that several main factors contribute to the condition:
Evening fatigue
Change in internal body clock
Reduced light/increased shadows causes anxiety
Inability of the brain to separate dreams from reality
Less need for sleep in advanced years
A few effective and simple ways to reduce the affects of sundowning include:
Arrange appointments and activities for earlier in the day whenever possible. Fatigue plays a major role in this condition. As the day progresses, a person living with Alzheimer’s will tire mentally, and will more likely become irritable and confused.
Maintain a healthy diet with exercise. Avoid foods and drinks with caffeine or sugar in the afternoon, like soda, sweets, or tea. If she tends to pace in the evening, try taking her for a few walks during the day to help her work off extra energy.
Engage her in simple, soothing activities. Play calming music for her, or give her something to do with her hands, like folding towels. If she feels secure and loved, and is in a safe, calm environment, she will more likely be able to settle down.
Do not argue with her. Instead, keep reminding her of where she is, and what is happening. Her behavior stems from an inability of the brain to sort out a confusing environment, and arguing and/or asking her what is wrong will only upset her more.
For help with this or any other dementia situation or for a list of our services visit our website at www.alznyc.org or call our 24 hour helpline: 1-800 272-3900. There is always a caring and informed person at the other end of the line to help you.
- The Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter
If you have a question for the Alzheimer’s Association, New York City Chapter, please send it to Jed Levine at expert@alznyc.org
