Caring for a loved one with dementia can bring many unexpected challenges, and one of the most common is sundowning. If you have noticed increased confusion, anxiety, or restlessness in the late afternoon or evening, you are not alone. While not every person with dementia shows these symptoms, many families across Wisconsin encounter this pattern and wonder what causes it and how to manage it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This guide will help you understand sundowning, why it happens, and practical ways to support your loved one at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Alzheimer\u2019s Association<\/a> explains that sundowning is when people with dementia experience increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness from dusk through the night. These symptoms often worsen as the day progresses and most commonly affect individuals living with Alzheimer\u2019s disease or other forms of dementia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Common signs of sundowning include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n These behaviors can be stressful for both seniors and caregivers, especially when they happen regularly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There is no single cause of sundowning, but several factors may contribute:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Changes in the body\u2019s internal clock<\/strong> Fatigue<\/strong> Low lighting and shadows<\/strong> Hunger or dehydration<\/strong> Overstimulation<\/strong> While sundowning cannot always be prevented, there are many ways to reduce its impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A predictable daily schedule can help your loved one feel more secure. Try to keep meal times, activities, and bedtime consistent each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Encourage exposure to natural light during the day. Open curtains and spend time outdoors when possible. This helps regulate the sleep cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Too much daytime sleeping can make nighttime rest more difficult. Short naps earlier in the day are usually better than long naps in the afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As evening approaches, reduce noise, turn off bright screens, and keep lighting soft but sufficient. A quiet, peaceful setting can ease anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Avoid caffeine and large meals late in the day. Offer a light dinner and keep your loved one hydrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your loved one becomes anxious or confused, stay calm and offer gentle reassurance. Avoid arguing or correcting them, as this can increase distress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Turn on lights before it gets dark to reduce shadows. Nightlights can also help if your loved one wakes up during the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If sundowning symptoms are becoming difficult to manage, it may be time to seek extra help. In-home care services can provide support during the most challenging times of day, especially evenings and overnight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Professional caregivers can assist with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For families in Waukesha County and surrounding Wisconsin communities, having local support can make a meaningful difference in maintaining comfort and safety at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While sundowning can be a common part of dementia, but it does not have to overwhelm your daily life. With the right strategies and support, you can create a calmer, more predictable environment for your loved one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are noticing increased evening confusion or agitation, starting with small changes and consistent routines can make a meaningful difference. Having the right support system in place can also ease stress for both seniors and caregivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Waukesha County and surrounding Wisconsin communities, families and seniors continue to seek care that promotes overall comfort and wellness as individuals age at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are considering support for yourself or a loved one, our team is here to listen and help you explore options. Call us at (262) 446-2000<\/a> or email waukeshawi@comforcare.com<\/a>. We offer in-home assessments across Waukesha County and surrounding areas, with complimentary assessments available for those who qualify.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" What families in Waukesha County should know about evening confusion and how to help. Caring for a loved one with dementia can bring many unexpected challenges, and one of the most common is sundowning. If you have noticed increased confusion, anxiety, or restlessness in the late afternoon or evening, you are not alone. While not […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":248,"featured_media":881,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_breakdance_hide_in_design_set":false,"_breakdance_tags":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[9,26,8],"class_list":["post-1778","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-aging-parents","tag-dementia","tag-senior-care"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhat Causes Sundowning?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Dementia can disrupt normal sleep and wake cycles, making evenings more difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>As the day goes on, your loved one may become more tired, which can increase confusion and frustration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Dim environments can make it harder to see clearly, which may lead to fear or misinterpretation of surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Basic needs that are not met can worsen agitation later in the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Busy or noisy environments can become overwhelming, especially in the evening when energy is lower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTips to Manage Sundowning at Home<\/strong><\/mark><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
1. Keep a Consistent Routine<\/mark><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
2. Maximize Daytime Light<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
3. Limit Late Day Naps<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
4. Create a Calm Evening Environment<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
5. Watch Food and Drink Intake<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
6. Offer Reassurance<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
7. Use Simple Lighting Solutions<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhen to Consider Additional Support<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nSupport for Seniors in Waukesha County<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n