My Grandma starts "Sundowning" at about 11:00 am everyday. Normally, this is something that happens to most dementia patients later in the day or evening. I haven't been able to pinpoint any specific triggers for her sudden personality shift, but it's like clockwork every single day. She will however, lighten up, become more engaged and happier later in the evening/night. Usually, about an hour before she goes to bed, she will suddenly perk up and become very talkative. It's pretty much the complete opposite of typical Sundowning behaviors. Has anyone else experienced anything like this with there loved one/patient?
Being kind and flexible as often very hard and I wish all of you the best in your hearts because I know it’s hard but that is what is needed as well as a lot of education thank you all for all of your help
My brother has Parkinson’s but he will be zoned out all day long looking at the floor and then after 530 he’s Wideawake
Remember everyone who suffers from dementia is on their own path & none of them do everything exactly the same way as the generalities say
Honestly, I feel like I am at a total loss with her. Now, most days, it doesn't matter what I do for her, she just CANNOT be pleased. I've tried all of the suggestions that are recommended to deter "Sundowning", and nothing has been effective.
Thank you for being a friend!
Sorry, couldn't resist. And in all seriousness, thank you for being such a caring granddaughter. I hope your family can find some answers to this extremely challenging situation!
We all have the right to change our behavior throughout the day, linked to medications/tiredness and lack of energy/motivation/hunger and other issues. So it is not surprising that this often happens with those living with dementia.
grandma might need to use the bathroom at that time, which causes her stress and anxiety.
Try some soothing music from the past. My gram used to watch reruns of the Lawrence Welk show! Best wishes!
i even put LED light in the light fixture that is in the shower. Helped me a lot nice bright light.
The CFL bulbs take a while to get to full illumination so I am not a real fan, plus disposing of them is not so easy. They should be recycled as they contain a small amount of mercury.
Sam's club and Costco sell both in quantity packs for a good price.
If you can't find LED for certain fixtures, CFL bulbs are also super energy efficient.
The prices are a bit more expensive but they really do pay for themselves in short order, our night lights are even LED.
When we implemented the bulb change our power bill went down by 50%.