Tips for Coping with Sundowning and Sleep Issues

Ensuring a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease feels safe and comfortable is a major priority for most caregivers. Issues related to poor sleeping and sundowning, however, can make this difficult. There are strategies that can help.

Sundowning is a symptom that coincides with Alzheimer’s disease and some other forms of dementia. It involves the worsening of confusion and agitation as the sun goes down for the night. Often associated with people in the mid- to more advanced stages of dementia, this occurrence can make providing care challenging while also impeding a loved one’s ability to enjoy adequate rest. The causes behind sundowning are not completely understood by the medical community, but there are some strategies that can mitigate the symptom’s effects:

• Seeking medical assistance – It is a very good idea to bring up sundowning concerns with the loved one’s healthcare provider. In some cases, the cause might be an unrelated illness, such as an infection or sleep apnea. Treatment for the condition may alleviate concerns about sundowning. In addition, medications may sometimes be required to assist. Other alternatives are generally preferred though.
• Keep the lights on before going to sleep – Making sure a loved one’s surroundings are well lit can reduce agitation when the sun goes down and rooms take on a dark, unfamiliar feel.
• Create a comfortable sleep environment – Making sure the loved one’s room is safe, secure and comfortable can promote a reduction in agitation. Nightlights can also be useful. It may also help to have someone in the room at night when sleeping. That way if they wake up at night they are not alone making them feel safer.
• Avoid overeating – Helping a loved one avoid caffeine at night and large meals can assist in lowering the effects of sundowning. Making lunch the largest meal of the day will help.
• Stick to a schedule – Sticking to a daily routine, as much as possible, can help a loved one feel more secure and may promote a more restful night’s sleep.
• Look for triggers – Certain things may serve as triggers for nighttime agitation, including loud music and the television. Keep an eye out for triggers and consider ways to mitigate those discovered. If television or loud music is a problem, try ‘calming music’ and try to avoid daily news programs.

Sundowning and related sleep concerns can make caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s more difficult. As agitation and confusion increase, the toll on the caregiver may, as well. If help is needed, medical professionals and specialized memory care facilities may offer the assistance required to ensure a loved one receives the comfort and care required.