A common symptom of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, the term "sundowning" refers to the changes that many patients experience as the afternoon turns into evening. Agitation, confusion, and other symptoms increase. While the causes are still being debated, many caregivers have no doubt that it is an important part of Alzheimer's disease.

How do you know if your loved one is experiencing sundowning as a part of their Alzheimer's disease? Like everything related to Alzheimer's, each person is different and will have different symptoms. It's important to know what is normal for your loved one. If anything concerns you, talk to your loved one's doctor. While there is no cure, there may be ways to help manage symptoms. These are some common signs of sundowning.

Anger and Agitation - This is very common. Your loved one will likely be irritable and impatient as the sun sets. Some Alzheimer's disease sufferers may have outburst of temper and even become violent.

Anxiety and Fear - Your loved one may become anxious and frightened at the end of the day.

Pacing, Wandering and Restlessness - Your loved one may find it difficult to sit still. In the early stages of Alzheimer's disease you may observe pacing and wandering. In the later stages, or if your loved one is immobile for other reasons, fidgeting and picking at hair and clothes is often seen.

Depression or Crying - Depression and lethargy, unexplained crying, and sadness are common among sundowners.

Stubborn Behavior - Your loved one may be uncooperative and stubborn. They might refuse to do simple tasks and refuse to listen or look at you.

Hallucinations - This is a common symptom of the later stages of Alzheimer's disease, but can show up as a sundowning symptom much earlier.

Hiding Objects - Many people hide objects, including food. Like hallucinations, this is sometimes seen at other times of day in advanced Alzheimer's disease patients but can be a part of earlier stage sundowning.

Paranoia - Your loved one may accuse you or others of stealing their belongings, trying to hurt them, or other things. They can not be convinced they are wrong. If you find the missing items or other proof, they will simply believe it was all a plot.

Questions - Incessant questions can drive a caregiver crazy, but are a common sign of sundowning.

Language Problems - This is a normal part of late stage Alzheimer's disease, but can show up in the evenings in the earlier stages.

Shadowing - Your loved one may follow you, or shadow, as you go about your routine. They often find this comforting as they repeat and imitate your words and actions.

The causes of sundowning aren't clear. Some experts it may be dues to changes in light, hormone shifts, or simple exhaustion at the end of the day. Others speculate that difficulty seeing in the dark or overstimulation from the day's activities may be the culprit. Whatever the cause, there is no cure. Some doctors may prescribe medications to help handle anxiety, depression, or other symptoms.

To read more articles on Alzheimer's and other senior care related issues please visit www.OurCareCommunity.com - a free eldecare resource where members can find the latest information on senior care issues, share their ideas and experiences, and connect with other members to get answers and advice.


Contributing Editor: Julie Sanocki, CNA
Julie is a graduate of the Certified Nursing Assistant program and has over 10 years experience in elder care. Having been a family member arranging elder care as well as a professional providing it, she understands the needs and concerns of all involved.


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