Q – My mom was diagnosed by a Bakersfield doctor approximately 6 years ago with Alzheimer’s. I have been her primary caregiver during this period, and while I have noticed a decline in her condition, I’ve found that it seems to be the worst at night. Is this normal?

A – Sundowning is a common condition that many seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia face. As your mom’s caregiver, here are 6 ways to help you recognize the signs of sundowning:

1) You might notice increased agitation in the later evening that is not present during the day
2) Your loved one may appear anxious about things that don’t typically bother him/her
3) During daytime hours your senior may not be confused about certain things, like names of family members or facts about their life, but at nighttime confusion increases
4) Seniors might be restless, unable to occupy themselves in the evening hours
5) At night, seniors might be more easily aggravated by simple things, frustrated with themselves and those around them
6) Seniors are likely to become less cooperative with caregivers at nighttime

Sources:

1. New York Times
2. Health Central

Home Care Bakersfield provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Bakersfield, Delano, Wasco, Lamont, Tehachapi, Lake Isabella, Ridgecrest, Taft, Shafter, Bodfish, Wofford Heights, Rosedale, Oildale, Kernville area. Call us today at 661-321-3235.