Dementia is a complex condition that affects individuals in many different ways. There are several types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, and each can present a unique set of symptoms. While no two people will experience dementia in exactly the same way, one common symptom that can occur is sundowning.
Sundowning is a term used to describe a pattern of increased confusion, agitation, or distress that often occurs in the late afternoon and evening. It is most commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease but can also occur in other forms of dementia. If you have a loved one living with dementia, you may notice that their behaviour changes later in the day, sometimes making the evenings more challenging than the mornings.
What Causes Sundowning in Dementia?
The exact cause of sundowning in dementia is not fully understood, but there are several factors that are believed to contribute to it. These include:
- Changes in the body’s internal clock – Dementia can affect the brain’s ability to regulate sleep and wake cycles, leading to confusion and restlessness in the evening.
- Fatigue – As the day goes on, a person with dementia may become more tired, which can increase feelings of agitation and confusion.
- Low light levels – Shadows and dim lighting can cause misinterpretations and increased anxiety.
- Unmet needs – Hunger, thirst, pain, or needing the toilet can all contribute to agitation later in the day.
- Overstimulation – Too much noise or activity during the day can result in feelings of being overwhelmed by the evening.
Which Types of Dementia Cause Sundowning?
Sundowning in dementia is most commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease but can also be seen in individuals with other types of dementia, such as:
- Vascular dementia – Where damage to blood vessels in the brain affects cognitive function, sometimes leading to restlessness in the evening.
- Lewy body dementia – This type of dementia often causes visual hallucinations, which can become more pronounced in the evening.
- Frontotemporal dementia – Although less common, some individuals with this type of dementia may experience changes in mood or behaviour later in the day.
Managing Sundowning in a Loved One
If your loved one experiences sundowning, it’s important to remember that while it can be distressing, it is not something to be overly worried about. There are several strategies you can use to help manage sundowning and provide reassurance:
- Maintain a routine – Consistency is key. Try to keep mealtimes, activities, and bedtime at the same time each day.
- Encourage exposure to natural light – Spending time outside or near a window during the day can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
- Create a calm environment – Reduce noise, turn on soft lighting in the evening, and remove potential stressors.
- Provide reassurance – If your loved one is feeling anxious, a calm and soothing approach can help to comfort them.
- Limit stimulants – Reducing caffeine and sugar intake in the afternoon can help prevent restlessness later in the day.
How B&M Care Supports Residents Experiencing Sundowning
At B&M Care, we understand the challenges that sundowning in dementia can present for you and your loved ones, and we are committed to providing expert dementia care to support our residents. Our dedicated teams create personalised care plans that take into account each individual’s needs, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable at all times. Our care homes are designed with dementia-friendly environments, offering soothing lighting and quiet spaces to minimise distress. We also use our dementia expertise to implement best practices that help reduce sundowning symptoms, such as structured daily routines and calming evening activities.
If you are seeking specialist dementia care for a loved one, B&M Care offers a warm, supportive, and understanding approach. Our compassionate teams are here to provide reassurance and high-quality care, helping each resident to live with dignity and purpose.
To find out more about how we can support your loved one, please visit our website or get in touch with one of our compassionate care home teams today.