Alzheimer's: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me

Alzheimer's disease has to be the most dreaded diagnosis. We live in fear of it. For ourselves. For our loved ones. Being a caregiver to an Alzheimer's patient is hazardous to the caregiver's physical, mental and emotional health.

The sad fact is that most Alzheimer's patients have to be placed in nursing homes. As symptoms worsen, the patient needs round-the-clock-care. If you are looking after a parent with Alzheimer's, you probably know that their symptoms get much worse as the day wears on. This is called "sundowning".

~~~Reasons for Sundowning~~~

1) patient becomes exhausted as day wears on. Mentally, physically and emotionally.

2) "internal body clock" is messed up

3) as lighting declines, shadows are increased

4) patient becomes disoriented because they are simply unable to separate dreams from reality

5) the elderly have less need for sleep

~~~What Can We Do To Lessen Sundowning?~~~

1) find ways to reduce agitation and sleeplessness

2) plan more active days if patient is up to it.

3) walking, socializing, light exercise

4) try to restrict sweets and caffeine to morning hours

5) seek medical advice if bladder and incontinence problems are present and medication to relax

~~~Behaviors For Sundowner's Caregivers~~~

If patient becomes awake and is agitated, handle with kid gloves.

1) approach parent in calm manner

2) find out what they need and want

3) they'll be disoriented so gently remind them of time of day

4) do not argue and demand explanations

5) reassure them with kindness, hugs and emotional warmth

For the caregiver and the Alzheimer's patient, sundowning is a wretched part of the day. As you tend to your parent with Alzheimer's, please take care of yourself as well.

(c) 2007 Karen Cook

For more information on Alzheimer's and caregiving, drop by http://incareofparents.blogspot.com

Karen Cook works in a Public Library where she helps caregivers locate information and resources.
Karen was also sole caregiver to her mother, who resided with her until her death in 2006.