Sundowner's Syndrome: Common Symptoms and Solutions


© Marci Stocks

Sundowner's is generally referred to in dementia-type writings. Sundowner's occurs at "sundown." The environment that your loved one was in during the day becomes confusing when it gets dark. They may become agitated, angry, or anxious. This may lead to wandering, pacing the floors, and showing of nervous behaviors.

There are several reactions that are important to look for if your loved one is experiencing Sundowner's:

  • crying
  • rapid mood changes
  • wandering
  • pacing
  • anger
  • agitation
  • paranoia
  • violent behaviors
If this sounds familiar, try some changes:

  • Turn the lights on inside of the house before it gets dark out.
  • Try not to surprise your loved one. Do not sneak up on them. This can be very scary.
  • If you are planning a family or friend outing, explain to your loved one in advance. Being in a large group can be confusing.

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages

20.   Aug 9, 2006 7:39 AM
Happy,Smiley,never meets a stranger,Friendly personality decribes our Mom,now all that is gone in just a matter of days.
My Mom is 92 years old and has always been a talkative, smart, always knows dr ...

-- posted by Lampie


19.   Nov 28, 2005 11:48 AM
My son has the symptoms of Sundowner's Syndrome but is only 35. Could he be suffering from this syndrome and if he is, can it be cured or helped? ...

-- posted by dkelley62


18.   Nov 22, 2005 7:02 PM
In response to Sundowner's Syndrome - Could it be medications? posted by linberg73:


I'm the caregiver to an 82 yr woman. I ...


-- posted by newcare


17.   Nov 22, 2005 11:42 AM
In response to Sundowner's Syndrome - Could it be medications? posted by linberg73:

My mother just got diagnosed with Sundowne ...

-- posted by harmony777


16.   Oct 17, 2005 4:15 PM
My 73 year old husband developed this when he was hospitalized for Atrial Fibrillation 8 months ago. He had an operation 1 week ago and the systems were there again. What I am interested in knowing, ...

-- posted by linberg73





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