As Daylight Fades: Understanding And Managing Sundowning In Dementia
What Sundowning Looks Like: Sundowning, also called sundown syndrome, describes a pattern of behavioral changes that can appear or become worse during the late afternoon, evening, or nighttime. It commonly affects people living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. A person who seems calm during the morning may become confused, restless, anxious, or upset as the day progresses. The symptoms vary from person to person. Some people pace, repeat questions, become suspicious, or have trouble recognizing familiar surroundings. Others may become angry, wander, cry, or struggle to fall asleep. Sundowning is not a separate disease or an intentional behavior. It is a challenging symptom pattern associated with changes in the brain and other factors.