Sundowning and Sleep Problems
Many people with Alzheimer's become restless, agitated, and irritable before or during twilight and sometimes lasting until dawn. This is referred to as "sundowning" or "Sundowners" syndrome.
These symptoms can be dangerous, both for the person with the Syndrome and for anyone around them.
Maintain a routine at sundown, which tends to alleviate the severe anxiety experienced by those sundowning. That includes trying to replicate a loved one's routine from a lifetime of living on their own as they transition into living in your home. Even posting a schedule that includes simple tasks such as "putting on pajamas" can be helpful.
Even after sundown, getting the person to go to bed and stay there may require some advance planning, because Sundowner's Syndrome can last until dawn. Here are some strategies to try:
- Encourage exercise during the day
- Limit daytime napping, but make sure that the person gets adequate rest during the day because fatigue can increase the likelihood of late afternoon restlessness.
- Try to schedule physically demanding activities earlier in the day. For example, bathing could be done in the morning, or the largest family meal could be served at midday.
- Set a quiet, peaceful tone in the evening to encourage sleep. Keep the lights dim, eliminate loud noises, even play soothing music if the person seems to enjoy it.
- Try to keep bedtime at a similar time each evening. Developing a bedtime routine may help.
- Limit caffeine.
- Use night-lights in the bedroom, hall, and bathroom if the darkness is frightening or disorienting.
- Take precautions to provide a safe space for your elderly parent to sleep, so you can get a solid night's rest, even if he or she stays awake and tries to wander.