What is sundowning?
Sundowning, also known as late-day confusion, is characterised by late afternoon/early evening confusion, occasional agitation and nocturnal wandering. This often occurs in people with alzheimers, demetia, or encephalopathy. It is actually thought to be a circadian dysrhythmia involving a reversal of the sleep-wake rhythm. Persons may be found at night, wandering in a confused state. This can be disturbing for family members, and can be a risk of them sustaining an injury.
Sundowning is resistant to treatment. Some recommendations to help those with sundowning are to avoid napping during the day and where possible be exposed to bright light (eg sunshine). Dr Antonio Culebras (professor of neurology) and his team are currently looking at bright light during the day as a therapeutic option for patients experiencing sundowning.
Read an interview with Dr Culbras here:
https://journal.thriveglobal.com/sundowning-236883942430
For more information visit here:
https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/manage-sundowning#1
https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/carers/behaviour-changes/sundowning
