Understanding Sundowning: Signs, Triggers, and Expert Home Care Solutions
As the day winds down, some older adults—especially those living with dementia—may become confused, agitated, or anxious. This pattern of late-day behavioral changes is known as sundowning, and it can be distressing for both the individual and their caregivers.
Sundowning affects not only a person’s mood and cognition but also their sleep, safety, and overall well-being. That’s why it’s essential to understand what it is, what causes it, and how to manage it effectively—with the help of experienced providers like KindCare Senior Home Care.
Sundowning, also known as sundown syndrome, refers to a group of symptoms that typically appear in the late afternoon or evening in individuals with dementia. These symptoms may include:
Some individuals may also experience hallucinations or become aggressive as night approaches.
While sundowning is not a disease, it is a common symptom associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Experts believe it’s tied to changes in the brain that affect the body’s circadian rhythm—the internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles.
Sundowning primarily affects older adults living with cognitive decline, especially those in the middle to late stages of dementia. Research suggests that up to two-thirds of people with dementia will experience sundowning at some point.
Sundowning symptoms often begin in the late afternoon and may intensify as evening sets in. You might notice:
Recognizing these signs early allows for timely interventions and can help ease the emotional burden on caregivers.
There isn’t one clear cause—but several factors may contribute, including:
These triggers often overlap and can vary from person to person.
There is no known cure for sundowning, but it can often be managed—and, in some cases, minimized.
Emerging research is exploring options such as:
While these advancements show promise, the most reliable approach still involves consistent routines, calming environments, and compassionate support.
There is no known cure for sundowning, but it can often be managed—and, in some cases, minimized. Emerging research is exploring options such as:
While these advancements show promise, the most reliable approach still involves consistent routines, calming environments, and compassionate support.
If you’re caring for someone experiencing sundowning, here are a few practical strategies that can help:
Keeping a consistent schedule for waking, meals, activities, and bedtime can reduce anxiety and confusion.
Encourage time outdoors or near windows during the day. Exposure to natural light supports better sleep-wake cycles.
Lower the lights gradually, limit noise, and wind down with soothing activities, such as quiet music or looking at family photos.
Reduce caffeine, large meals, and long naps in the afternoon to help avoid restlessness at night.
When agitation arises, respond with patience. Offer redirection, not correction, and create a sense of safety and reassurance.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying health issues.
Managing sundowning at home can become overwhelming—especially for family caregivers juggling other responsibilities. Fortunately, there are supportive care options available, such as:
Among these, home care offers the benefit of keeping seniors in a familiar and comforting environment, which plays a key role in reducing sundowning symptoms.
At KindCare Senior Home Care, we specialize in caring for seniors with dementia and sundowning. Our team of trained caregivers offers thoughtful, personalized care designed to meet your loved one’s unique needs—especially during the challenging evening hours.
We help by:
Our compassionate approach promotes not only safety and comfort—but also dignity and peace for your loved one.
Sundowning may be a common part of the dementia journey, but it doesn’t have to be unmanageable. With the right strategies, environment, and professional support, your loved one can experience more peaceful evenings—and you can feel more confident in your caregiving journey.
If you’re seeking expert help, KindCare Senior Home Care is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
👉 Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a free in-home care consultation.
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