As a condition that sometimes accompanies dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, sundowners syndrome can take a huge toll on the resources of both the patient and the caregiver. The condition includes a wide range of symptoms, such as extreme agitation, sudden confusion, and even hallucinations, so caring for someone with this malady requires constant vigilance. Several common techniques, including creating a routine, staying calm, and helping the patient feel safe and secure, can help you to care for a patient.
Establishing a routine for the day is very important. While somewhat repetitive, the security and comfort found in moving through a predictable course of action can help minimize the discomfort and anxiety the patient experiences when the mind suddenly seems to lose track of what is happening. Since the actions for the day are just like those of other days, it is sometimes easier to slip back into the flow of the day with less trepidation or anxiety. As a bonus, you can use the repetitive steps of the routine to keep track of how well the patient is functioning in general.
Keeping calm is very important when dealing with someone suffering with sundowners syndrome. Often, the patient’s agitation will come on suddenly and may lead to shouting, the use of strong language, and possibly even violent actions. By asking direct questions about the origin of the agitation in a calm and measured tone, you can help the patient begin to move past the agitation and avoid hurting himself or others in the immediate vicinity.
Exercising patience is also extremely important. Depending on how the condition manifests itself, you may find the patient following you closely, not unlike a small child or a pet. In other instances, he may exhibit a tendency to wander, making it necessary for you to keep close tabs on his location at all times. At other times, you may have to patiently walk through a hallucination with the patient rather than become irritated and try to use logic to snap the person back into reality.
Providing for the basic needs of the patient is another way to help manage and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with this condition. Make sure the patient gets sunlight in the morning, as this helps to maintain the internal clock. Keep clean clothes handy and gently encourage good personal hygiene. Nutritious meals served on time will also help the patient feel comfortable and relatively secure. Don’t forget to make sure the bed is comfortable, so the prospect of retiring for the night or taking a nap in the afternoon is appealing.
In an indirect manner, one of the best ways to care for someone with sundowners syndrome is to also take good care of yourself. This means making sure you get regular exercise, eat properly, and get enough rest. Doing so will make it easier to exercise patience and do all the little things necessary to care for your patient or loved one. When possible, also allow yourself an evening out with friends or a quiet moment for yourself, as this will also help you to maintain a positive attitude.
With so little information currently available about the causes of this condition, there is only so much that can be done in the way of treatment. This makes the function of the caregiver especially important. Learn what does and does not work with your patient, and don’t forget to take care of yourself at the same time. Doing so will make life a lot easier for both of you.