Winter can be an especially difficult time of year for some people living with Lewy Body Dementia. Not only does it make it hard to get outside with the person you care for, but the shorter days of winter can also increase sundowning.

Sundowning, a relatively common problem for people with LBD and other types of dementia, usually begins around sunset and can last through the night. During this time, the person you care for may experience increased agitation, anger, confusion and memory loss. All of these symptoms can be exacerbated during short winter days when the sun sets early and the evenings are long and dark.

There are several ways caregivers can minimize sundowning.

1. Set a schedule

You and the person you care for will both benefit from a routine schedule. Not only does it give a person with LBD a sense of stability and safety, it will also help you plan for each day. We suggest setting a time for bedtime and waking, mealtimes, exercise and activities.

2. Plan activities for early in the day

Try to plan all activities, appointments and exercise for the morning or early afternoon, depending upon which works best for the individual person. This will help keep your loved one from getting overly tired in the evening, which can intensify the effects of sundowning, and encourage a good night’s sleep. We also suggest limiting each day’s activities to one or two events and avoiding late afternoon naps if possible.

3. Create a tranquil atmosphere at night

You can reduce confusion and agitation by creating a calm, peaceful environment for the person you care for. This is important at all times, but especially if sundowning is an issue. Try discouraging visitors late in the day, keeping stimulation from the TV and radio to a minimum and playing soothing music or sounds, such as the sound of rain. Using a night light can also be helpful.

4. Speak with the person’s doctor

Does your loved one have any underlying issues that contribute to sundowning? Find out by speaking with their doctor. Some examples of issues that may worsen sundowning include urinary tract infections, sleep apnea and reactions to medications.

Coping with the behaviors linked to Lewy Body Dementia can be difficult and exhausting for caregivers. Read Caregiving Mantras to Carry into the New Year for tips on handling these difficult feelings. Contact us today to learn more about support groups in your area or for information on free one-on-one counseling.