Post by Dawn on Nov 20, 2008 22:44:58 GMT -5
“Sundowning” is a term that refers to late-day confusion experienced by persons with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia usually at the end of the day and into the night. While experts are not certain why this behavior occurs, Factors that may cause this late-day confusion include:
* Fatigue, end-of-day exhaustion,
* Disorientation caused by a disruption of the bodies internal clock,
* Low lighting, and increased shadows,
* Problems sleeping
Tips and techniques for “sundowning” include:
* Try to engage the resident in a favorite peaceful activity
* Provide a quiet space or go for a walk
* Turn on lamps to avoid shadows
* Late afternoon could be a rest time for watching television or listening to music
* Offer milk and a favorite snack
* Make the area as safe as possible and let the pacing and muttering begin!
Source: AlzOnline/Central and North Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association "Agitated Behavior Training Module", 2007
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* Fatigue, end-of-day exhaustion,
* Disorientation caused by a disruption of the bodies internal clock,
* Low lighting, and increased shadows,
* Problems sleeping
Tips and techniques for “sundowning” include:
* Try to engage the resident in a favorite peaceful activity
* Provide a quiet space or go for a walk
* Turn on lamps to avoid shadows
* Late afternoon could be a rest time for watching television or listening to music
* Offer milk and a favorite snack
* Make the area as safe as possible and let the pacing and muttering begin!
Source: AlzOnline/Central and North Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association "Agitated Behavior Training Module", 2007
top
