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sundowning

Confusion, restlessness or agitation that gets worse in the late afternoon and evening in some people with dementia.

SUN-down-ing noun

What it means

A pattern of behavior changes as daylight fades. The person may become more confused, anxious, suspicious, restless or prone to wandering. Tiredness, low light, shadows, hunger, pain, a full bladder and changes in routine can all add to it.

For the nurse

Keep a steady daily routine, open the curtains and encourage activity in the daytime, limit naps and caffeine, turn lights on before dark, and keep the evening calm. Check for pain, hunger and toileting needs.

Related terms

delirium

A sudden state of confusion and poor attention that comes and goes over hours or days.

dementia

A long-term, usually worsening decline in memory and thinking that is serious enough to affect daily life.

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