How Do I Care for Someone with Sundowners Syndrome?
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. With a wide range of symptoms that include extreme agitation, sudden confusion, and even hallucinations, caring for someone with this malady requires constant vigilance and the application of several common techniques. Here are some examples of how you can provide effective and compassionate care for someone suffering with Sundowners Syndrome.
Establishing a routine for the day is very important when caring for someone with Sundowners Syndrome. While somewhat repetitive, the security and comfort found in moving through a predictable course of actions 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, the caregiver 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 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, the caregiver can help the patient begin to move past the agitation and avoid hurting self or others in the immediate vicinity.
Exercising patience is also extremely important. Depending on how the condition manifests itself, the caregiver may find the patient following close at heel, not unlike a small child or a pet. In other instances, the patient may exhibit a tendency to wander, making it necessary for the caregiver to locate the patient quickly. At other times, the caregiver 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 Sundowners Syndrome. 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 aid in helping to keep the patient 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 a sufficient amount of 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 Sundowners Syndrome, 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 you and your patient.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
