Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only robs today of its joy.
6 Strategies to Deal with Sundowning
As the day progresses, you might notice a shift in your loved one's demeanour from warm and personable in the morning to agitated and confused by late afternoon.
This change is often associated with Sundowning Syndrome, a condition that worsens dementia symptoms during the late afternoon and early evening.
While there is no cure for Sundowning, there are strategies to help manage its effects and support your loved one during these challenging times.
Here are six practical strategies you can implement:
Establish a Routine: Consistency is key. Try to maintain regular times for daily activities like meals, doctor’s appointments, and personal care to help distinguish day from night.
Increase Exposure to Natural Light: Start the day with a walk outside or by simply sitting near a sunny window to help regulate their body's internal clock.
Enhance Indoor Lighting: As evening approaches, ensure the living space is well-lit to reduce shadows that could cause confusion or fear. Use soft, ample lighting to create a calm environment.
Reduce Noise and Clutter: A serene environment can prevent stress and anxiety. Keep the living space tidy and minimize ambient noise to help keep your loved one calm.
Engage in Calming Activities: When signs of anxiety appear, gently guide them towards activities they enjoy, such as listening to their favourite music or watching a beloved TV show.
Promote Good Sleep Hygiene: Encourage regular sleep patterns by ensuring the bedroom is comfortable and free from distractions. Limit caffeine and reduce exposure to blue light from screens in the evening.
Managing Sundowning Syndrome is about creating a supportive environment that anticipates and adapts to the needs of your loved one.
All About Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Program
Expert-led Training:
Evidence-Based Approach: Tailored to address the unique needs of those with early-stage Alzheimer's and dementia.
Global Recognition: Developed in the UK and successfully implemented in 35 countries.
Carer Advantages: Equips carers with skills to engage in meaningful activities, enhancing relationships with loved ones.
Enhanced Patient Wellbeing: Participants have shown improvements in mood, communication, social engagement, and overall quality of life.
Ongoing Support Group:
Expert Access: Regular sessions with dementia care experts to refine your caregiving skills.
Supportive Community: Join a network of carers who share your experiences and challenges.
Monthly Activities: Gain access to new exercises each month to keep your caregiving approach effective and engaging.
Motivation and Inspiration: Share and discover inspiring stories that foster resilience and a sense of shared purpose in the caregiving journey.
Secure your spot early and ensure you are fully equipped to provide the best possible care without sacrificing your own health and happiness.
We Value Your Feedback
Did you find the insights in the 'Alzheimer's Lifeline' report helpful? We're always looking to better support caregivers like you and could really use your help to understand how.
Would you mind taking a quick survey? It’ll just take a few minutes, and your answers will help us shape our support to better suit your needs.
Your Thoughts and Experiences
We understand that discussing these topics can be challenging.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences, which can be comforting and helpful to others navigating similar paths.
How has this information impacted your perspective on care and planning?
Please reply to this email to share.
As we dive into a new edition of our newsletter, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each of you who shared your thoughts on the Alzheimer's Lifeline report.
Your feedback is invaluable as it not only enriches our community's understanding but also guides us in crafting more meaningful content that resonates with your experiences and needs.
It’s your contributions that help shape our path forward, making every newsletter more insightful than the last.
I'm looking forward to continuing this journey with you, learning and growing together in our fight against Alzheimer’s.
With appreciation,
Harvey Zemmel