I want to share about a topic that’s important for anyone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia: Sundown Syndrome, AKA sundowning. Sundowning is when someone with dementia experiences increased confusion, restlessness, and agitation when the sun begins to go down, (hence the clever name)! The exact cause isn’t known but researchers believe it could be linked to disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle, changes in the brain’s internal clock, or increased fatigue and anxiety in the evening. Sundowning can be different for everyone. Some people have mild confusion while others become very agitated. It is difficult for both the person experiencing it and their loved ones.

In the next post, I’ll share some tips on how to help someone experience sundowners. In the meantime, if you are a caregiver and stressed, know you are not alone! If you are in need of immediate support, you can call the Alzheimer’s hotline 24/7.