End of Daylight Savings worsens "sundowning" in dementia patients
Nov 04, 2024
(NATIONAL) — The end of daylight savings on Sunday, Nov. 3, meant an extra hour of sleep for most people but for those living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, it may bring an extra layer of disorientation that can last through the winter months.
The time change may bring up "sundowning," a term that covers a group of symptoms that often occur in people with dementia. Symptoms include anxiety, sadness, restlessness, hallucinations, delusions, sudden mood swings, increased confusion, and energy surges.
Sundowning usually occurs in the late afternoon and early evening hours. It may be associated with the disruption in sleep and wake cycles, which the Daylight Savings Time change can worsen.
“While the cause of sundowning is unclear, there are steps that families can take to help manage sundowning in their loved one,” said Jim Hammelev, executive director for the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado. “The more we understand about sundowning, the better we can help our loved ones cope with the discomfort it can cause them.”
Family members and caretakers cautioned that they may see behavioral changes in their loved ones in the months ahead. The Alzheimer's Association offers caregivers some tips to manage sundowning in their loved ones, including:
Get plenty of rest. The caregiver is less likely to exhibit unintended nonverbal behavior which can contribute to the stress level of the person living with Alzheimer's.
Schedule activities in the early morning when the person living with dementia is more alert.
Make notes about what happens before sundowning and try to identify triggers.
Keep the home well-lit in the evening, adequate lighting may reduce the person's confusion.
Do not physically restrain the person, it can make agitation worse.
Allow the person to pace back and forth, as needed, under supervision.
Exercise during the day can help the person expand their energy.
If behavioral interventions and environmental changes do not work, discuss the situation with a doctor. Alzheimer's disease is the seventh-leading cause of death in the U.S. More than seven million Americans live with the disease and it can't be prevented or cured.