Caregivers, Ensure A Peaceful Evening

Restlessness, irritability, agitation and confusion that tends to occur late in the day is known as “sundowning”.

There are a lot of factors that can trigger sundown syndrome. These include: fatigue, illness, poor lighting, increasing shadows, and disruption of the regular daily schedule to name a few. Sundown syndrome can occur without these triggers.

Here are some tips to help minimize the occurrence of sundown syndrome:

• Routine is your friend. A predictable daily schedule, including timing of meals, activities and bedtime will reduce uncertainty.
• Make sure there is adequate light during the daytime. Natural light is best, so make sure there is adequate natural light during the day. If natural light is in short supply, try full-spectrum lighting. Full-spectrum lighting is light that is similar to natural light. It can be purchased in a home supply store. Avoid harsh lighting.
• Activity and light exercise can reduce stress hormones. If possible, have some activity outdoors, in the natural light. Be aware that too much activity can also cause problems.
• Limit caffeine and sugar intake. Make sure your loved one is adequately fed—try not to miss meals.
• Sound can be your friend or your enemy. Upsetting sounds, from the TV or other noise in the house can make matters worse. Calming music or sounds in the background can be very helpful. Research has shown that classical music or nature sounds can have a calming effect.
• Reduce clutter.
• Make sure you bring familiar, comforting items when in an unfamiliar environment.
• Distraction can be a valuable tool to help calm someone in an anxious state. A familiar video, CD, family pictures, art, or even a pet may help.
• Puzzles are a useful tool to help focus and to train the brain.
• Visit your geriatrician to rule out health issues that may be causing the problem.
• Massage, even a simple massage of the hands and lower arms, can have a calming effect.

Addressing general health and health of the brain and nervous system can help improve quality of life and calm the patient. Make sure any alternative treatments are discussed with your health care provider to ensure they are not interfering with the treatment plan. Certain nutrients and herbs can be extremely beneficial to brain health.

Written by: Paul Varnas, DC, DACBN (Doctor of Chiropractic; Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Nutrition).He has written and published numerous articles on the topics of exercise, wellness and nutrition.