Do the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease vary by the time of day?
Sundown syndrome — also called sundowning or sunsetting — is a behavior common in people with Alzheimer’s disease. It describes the confusion, anxiety, agitation, or disorientation that often occur at dusk and into the evening hours. The episodes may last a few hours or throughout the night. While the exact cause of sundown syndrome is not known, experts believe there are several contributing factors. These include physical and mental exhaustion (after a long day), and a shift in the “internal body clock” caused by the change from daylight to dark. Some people with Alzheimer’s disease have trouble sleeping at night, which may contribute to their disorientation. Medication that can cause agitation or confusion also may contribute to this syndrome. Sundown syndrome can be draining for the person with Alzheimer’s disease and his or her caregivers. Here are some suggestions for helping a loved one with sundown syndrome cope: • Schedule the day so that the more difficult tasks are done ea
