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Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be physically and emotionally draining, especially when they have behavioral changes caused by their anxiety and confusion. Many advanced dementia patients lash out at their caregivers with unexpected aggression later in the day or at night. The phenomenon is referred to as Sundowners Syndrome or “sundowning” because the disruptive behavior usually occurs after the sun has gone down and feelings of paranoia, sadness, fear, or anger seep into the mind, sometimes accompanied by delusions or hallucinations. Sundowning is stressful for both persons living with dementia and their caregivers. However, our healthcare professionals are here to offer helpful tips for managing anger and Sundowners Syndrome in loved ones with memory loss.
One out of five dementia patients suffer from sundowning
Elder care presents many unique challenges to caregivers. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about your loved one’s late afternoon or nighttime mood swings, the most important thing to remember is that you aren’t alone. According to scientific studies, as many as one out of five people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia suffer from Sundowners Syndrome. Much mystery shrouds this condition, but experts believe the neurological changes caused by dementia affect the individual’s inner body clock. This confusion about the time of day often manifests itself in the person shouting, pacing, and acting in aggressive manners. Sadly, these anger issues tend to worsen as the person’s memory loss progresses.
Understand their anger isn’t directed at you or your actions
The first step to handling your loved one’s anger issues is to understand where this anger is coming from and recognize that it isn’t aimed at you or something you have necessarily done. Anger is usually caused by physical, emotional, or mental triggers. Your loved one may be angry because they cannot do the simplest tasks, such as tying their shoes or going to the grocery store. They could be experiencing physical fatigue, discomfort, or soreness you aren’t aware of, and they are unable to articulate how they are feeling.
Be aware that certain medications can cause behavioral side effects. Feelings of boredom or loneliness caused by their condition could also be the culprit for sudden outbursts. Memory loss and disorientation are often mental causes for aggression. Once you understand these underlying causes for your loved one’s anger, it may make it easier for you to cope and even avoid sources causing such behavior.
Observe what seems to trigger their aggressive behavior
Observing your loved one can provide valuable clues as to what’s prompting their aggressive behavior. Do they seem to lash out more when they’re hungry or haven’t had a restful night’s sleep? Sometimes, anger could be caused by overstimulation. Physical clutter, loud noises, bright lights, or lots of activity around them could cause this overstimulation. Consider light-blocking curtains to create a cozy atmosphere during the day, or on the flip side, surround your loved one with plenty of lights at night to alleviate fears when it’s time to go to sleep. Someone living with dementia may also become upset by anything that disrupts their day, such as diverting from their typical routine or switching caregivers. First-to-second shift rotations typically occur in the late afternoon or early evening hours at most group homes and could be the cause of disruptive patient behaviors.
Evaluate how you communicate with your loved one
Much of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is learning how to communicate with them. Always speak softly and slowly with easy-to-understand instructions. Try not to say too much or ask too many questions at once, as this could lead to overstimulation. People often pick up on feelings of uncertainty or irritability, so it’s crucial to remain calm and reassuring at all times. Even if your loved one lashes out at you verbally or physically, try not to get upset. Never react with force or violence. If they’re in a safe place or someone else can keep an eye on them, walk away from the situation and give yourself time to think and calm down.
Consider defusing the tension with music or activities
Often, you can defuse anger and tension with a relaxing activity, such as massage or music. Try to redirect your loved one’s attention to something other than what triggered the behavior. Try putting on your loved one’s favorite TV show, suggest taking a walk, or doing something else you know they enjoy.
Remember to be kind and empathetic at all times
Above all, remember to be kind and empathetic at all times when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. You care about this person and their well-being. They are suffering from a disease and often have little to no control over their thoughts, feelings, or actions. Never punish or reprimand them for bad behavior. It is not their fault, and they will likely not remember the scenario afterward. Seek help from their primary care physician or a support group to learn how to detect, defuse, and prevent angry outbursts.
Identify what caused the aggression so you can fix it
Try to figure out what happened right before the aggressive behavior, so you can take steps to correct it. Keeping a consistent log of your loved one’s behaviors and reactions can help you spot patterns and determine potential solutions. If you believe it’s the person’s diet, sleep pattern, surroundings, or medications, consult their physician to make adjustments as necessary to avoid anger triggered by these factors. Be on the lookout for any signs of discomfort or pain and seek immediate medical attention if you believe this is the cause of your loved one’s anger. Any time you are concerned about changes in your loved one’s behavior, habits, or moods, consult their primary care physician. They are there to provide professional support and information. Ask about the possibility of prescribing anti-anxiety or anti-depressant medications to modify behavior.
Consider professional elder care from BrightStar Care®
It’s important to recognize when you need help with caring for your loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. BrightStar Care® has nurses, CNAs, and caregivers available around the clock to provide compassionate care in the comfort and familiar surroundings of home. Caring is more than a job to our nurses and caregivers – it’s their passion. Your family is our family! Contact us for help at 651-770-8427 or visit us at https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/st-paul/
As our loved ones age, its natural to notice some changes in their memory, thinking, and behavior. Forgetting where they placed their keys or occasionally mixing up names is often just part of growing older. However, theres a fine line between typical aging and the early symptoms of dementia. Recognizing this difference is crucial for getting help early and preserving quality of life.What you will learn: The key differences between normal aging and early signs of dementia. Seven critical symptoms of early dementia that shouldnt be overlooked. How early detection can improve care planning and quality of life. Ways in-home care supports seniors with dementia and eases family caregiving challenges. Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia Understanding whats considered normal aging is key. Age-related memory changes often involve forgetfulness that doesnt disrupt daily life. A senior might take longer to recall a word or forget why they walked into a room, but the information typically comes back. Theyre still able to manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions. In contrast, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with the ability to function independently. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, and eventually requires full-time care. 7 Key Dementia Signs You Shouldnt IgnoreHere are some critical signs of early dementia:1. Frequent Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information and relying heavily on notes or others to remember things they used to manage on their own.2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or operate appliances theyve used for years.3. Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding what others are saying, often pausing, repeating themselves, or struggling to name everyday objects.4. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.5. Confusion About Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.6. Changes in Mood or Personality: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.How In-Home Care Can HelpCaring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. Thats where in-home support from Always Best Care of Denver can make a meaningful difference. Our caregivers are trained to recognize the early symptoms of cognitive decline and keep families informed about changes. They can help with daily tasks, encourage mental stimulation, and provide companionship.Having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind, ensuring that your loved one is safe, supported, and able to maintain as much independence as possible.FAQQ: Whats the difference between normal aging and early dementia? A: Normal aging involves forgetfulness that doesnt disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting daily functioning.Q: How can I support a loved one with early signs of dementia?A: Seek professional evaluation early, and consider in-home care for support with daily tasks and companionship.Q: Is it possible to slow down dementia progression? A: While theres no cure, early detection and support can improve quality of life and slow down some symptoms.Schedule a Complimentary Consultation at Always Best Care of Denver!If youre concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, dont wait to take action. Contact Always Best Care of Denver at (303) 952-3060 for a care consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and create a care plan tailored to your loved ones unique needs. Early support mattersand you dont have to navigate it alone.
Home should be a haven, but for someone living with dementia, it can quickly turn into a maze of confusion and hazards. At Always Best Care of Denver, we know that a few thoughtful tweaks-big or small-can make all the difference. So, how can we transform a regular home into a dementia-friendly home? Grab a cup of tea, and lets roll up our sleeves!What you will learn: The key reasons why home modifications for dementia are essential for safety, comfort, and independence. Simple, practical ways to adapt each room. Useful safety tips, technology aids, and supportive equipment that help prevent accidents and ease daily life for loved ones with dementia. Why Home Modifications for Dementia MatterDementia changes how people see, remember, and interact with their environment. Simple tasks become tricky, and familiar spaces can suddenly feel foreign. Smart home modifications for dementia can: Reduce falls and injuries. Boost independence. Ease anxiety and confusion. Prevent wandering and accidents. 3 Key Principles of a Dementia-Friendly HomeLight It Up Double the usual lighting levels; aging eyes need more light! Use daylight as much as possible; keep curtains open and windows clear. Add motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms for nighttime trips. Color and Contrast Use contrasting colors for walls, floors, and furniture to help with depth perception. Avoid busy patterns; they can confuse or even frighten someone with dementia. Try colored tape or labels for steps, switches, and taps. Declutter and Simplify Keep walkways clear; no tripping over shoes or stray rugs! Store daily-use items in easy-to-reach, labeled spots. Remove or lock away hazardous items like cleaning products, knives, and medications. Room-by-Room Home Modifications for DementiaKitchen Safety Tips Install stoves with auto shut-off features or remove stove knobs. Keep sharp objects and cleaning supplies locked away. Use clear labels on cupboards and drawers. Regularly clean out the fridge; no one wants a science experiment gone wrong! Bathroom Modifications Add grab rails and slip-resistant mats. Install a raised toilet seat and a color-contrasted toilet seat for easy spotting. Use lever taps and label hot and cold clearly. Remove electric blankets and hot water bottles. Bedroom Safety Place non-slip mats beside the bed (but make sure theyre not a trip hazard). Install nightlights or motion-sensor lights for late-night wandering. Remove mirrors or limit them. Living Areas Arrange furniture for easy navigation; think wide, open paths. Use photos of loved ones and familiar objects to create a sense of belonging. Keep commonly used items, like the TV remote or favorite blanket, within arms reach. Top 10 Dementia Safety Tips Lock away hazardous items (cleaners, knives, meds). Use contrasting colors for steps and switches. Install grab rails and slip-resistant flooring. Add motion-sensor lights throughout the house. Label doors, cupboards, and drawers. Remove or secure loose rugs and cords. Keep emergency numbers on every phone. Limit mirrors and reflective surfaces. Use door alarms to prevent wandering. Regularly assess the home for new hazards. Technology Aids and Equipment Door alarms and GPS trackers for wandering prevention. Smart home systems for automating lights and heating. Memory aids like whiteboards or digital reminders. Accessible phones with large buttons and photo dialing. Frequently Asked Questions About Home Safety Modifications for People With Dementia How do I start dementia proofing a home? Begin with a walk-through, looking for trip hazards, poor lighting, and unsecured dangerous items. Tackle the most urgent risks first, then work room by room. Whats the best lighting for dementia patients at home? Bright, even lighting is key! Use natural daylight when possible and add motion-sensor lights in dark areas. Avoid glare and harsh shadows. How can I prevent wandering at home? Install door alarms, use locks on exit doors, and consider GPS devices. Keep doors to unsafe areas locked, but allow easy access to safe spaces. Are labels and signage really helpful? Absolutely! Clear, simple labels (words or pictures) on doors, cupboards, and drawers help jog memory and reduce frustration. What should I avoid in a dementia-friendly home? Busy patterns, clutter, loose rugs, and anything sharp or toxic. Also, steer clear of complicated gadgets and confusing layouts.Transform Your Home Into a Safe Haven | Start Your Dementia-Friendly Makeover Today!Making home modifications for dementia isnt just about safety-its about helping our loved ones feel confident, comfortable, and cared for. At Always Best Care of Denver, we believe a few thoughtful changes can turn a house back into a home. Remember, its not about perfection; its about progress. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create a dementia-friendly home? Were right here with you every step of the way. Contact Always Best Care of Denver at (303) 952-3060 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.
Alzheimers is the most common type of dementia and occurs when plaques and bundles of proteins build up between nerve cells in the brain, ultimately causing brain cell death. Individuals often experience confusion, memory loss and inability to care for themselves. The disease is physically degenerative and is often mentally and emotionally draining on both the individual with the disease, as well as family members around them. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimers, you likely have a lot of questions. At BrightStar Care, our team has experience in working with clients and families dealing with Alzheimers and want to help you better understand the road ahead.Causes & Diagnosis of AlzheimersWhen caring for a loved one with dementia, knowledge and understanding of their condition can be invaluable. Although every case of Alzheimers disease is unique, there are some commonalities in terms of causes, symptoms and general prognoses.What causes Alzheimers?For people diagnosed with Alzheimers, the exact timeline, symptoms and primary causes will vary. There are many possible causes of Alzheimers disease that include genetic, environmental and/or lifestyle factors. Diet, sleep patterns and a lack of both cognitive and physical exercise may all play a role in the causes of Alzheimers.What is the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?Dementia is not a disease itself, but rather a group of symptoms that impact brain functionality caused by various diseases and conditions. Alzheimers disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases.What is the 12-question test for Alzheimers? The 12-question test for dementia, also known as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), is a clinical tool used to evaluate cognitive impairment. It assesses several cognitive functions including memory, orientation to time and place, language abilities, and calculation skills. By asking a series of 12 questions, healthcare providers can gauge a person's cognitive status and help determine the likelihood of dementia.Alzheimers Symptoms & PrognosisThe earliest detectable signs of Alzheimers include memory trouble, apathy and depression. People in the early stages of Alzheimers might have problems completing familiar tasks or misplace things and be unable to retrace their steps. As the disease progresses, more severe symptomsincluding impaired communication, poor judgment and disorientationmay emerge. Each individuals experience with Alzheimers is unique. Your doctor and medical team can help you better understand your condition, symptoms and any treatment options as they relate to you. What are the symptoms of Alzheimers?Alzheimers is most commonly characterized by mental confusion and forgetfulness. Some common tell-tale behaviors are forgetting familiar names, getting lost in familiar places, and an inability to complete routine tasks.How can I tell the difference between Alzheimers and typical signs of aging?While forgetfulness and confusion are associated with Alzheimers, these symptoms also accompany normal aging. So, how can you tell the difference? The Alzheimers Association lists memory loss as a challenge that disrupts daily life, challenges in planning or solving problems, and difficulty completing familiar tasks. They also differentiate these symptoms from the milder signs of normal cognitive decline. For instance, while a normal older adult might occasionally struggle to balance their checkbook or forget an important name or date and then remember it later, these difficulties are more persistent or extreme for an Alzheimers sufferer.For example, occasionally losing your keys or forgetting what you had for breakfast that morning is common among older adults. However, a person with Alzheimers may show even more pronounced lapses in memory. For instance, they may not only lose their keys, but also completely forget what keys are for, showing a stark decline in cognitive connections. Whats the typical Alzheimers prognosis? For people diagnosed with Alzheimers, the exact timeline, symptoms, and severity of their disease can vary. However, the trajectory of the disease tends to flow through seven distinct phases, originally outlined by Dr. Barry Reisberg of New York University.The arc generally begins with symptoms similar to those of normal aging, proceeds through gradually worsening stages that can include difficulty with simple arithmetic and forgetting personal details, and ends with severe decline typified by the inability to swallow.Early stages: Early-stage Alzheimers typically includes mild decline, such as difficulty in finding the right word during conversation, losing personal possessions and having trouble remembering familiar names. At this stage, family members can typically manage care for their afflicted loved one. Middle stages: This period is marked by moderate decline in mental faculties, including poor short-term memory, inability to manage personal finances, difficulty dressing or grooming and significant confusion. In these stages, a person with Alzheimers may need occasional in-home care or nursing services.Late stages: In the final stages, severe decline is present, including inability to recognize familiar faces, inability to remember personal details, loss of bladder control and major personality changes. Individuals at this stage either relocate to a residential facility or have a full-time in-home caregiver.Is there a cure for Alzheimers? Theres no known cure for Alzheimers, only treatments that can ease symptoms. The FDA has approved two types of medications (cholinesterase inhibitors, such as Aricept, Exelon, and Razadyne, and memantine, found in Namenda) that diminish mental confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive symptoms, but these do not reverse the underlying causes.Recent research and clinical trials have made potential breakthroughs with immunotherapy treatments and monoclonal antibodies. Many also suggest herbal supplements like gingko biloba and coenzyme Q10, but these lack confirmation through clinical trials. Additionally, non-drug interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as caregiver support programs can improve quality of life, especially in early stages. Alzheimers Prevention and Management Understanding the nature of Alzheimers and how to manage it can positively impact families affected by this disease. Having accurate information about risk factors, early warning signs and how to manage each stage of Alzheimers can help support family caregivers throughout the progression of the disease. How can I prevent Alzheimers? There are no proven ways to completely prevent Alzheimers. As with many degenerative illnesses, a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and effective sleep habits, may help lower the risk of developing Alzheimers. Research has shown a correlation between high blood pressure and high cholesterol and the incidence of the disease. Doctors recommend getting these numbers to a healthy level, not only for Alzheimers prevention but for general good health.There are a variety of ways to maintain good brain health that can also work toward a lower likelihood of Alzheimers disease. Regular social interaction, brain stimulating activities such as puzzles and learning new skills, and managing stress levels can help maintain cognitive health. Certain forms of physical exercise can also support brain health such as walking, swimming and strength training. Is Alzheimer's hereditary?There are rare familial forms of dementia caused by genetic mutations such as familial Alzheimers disease, frontotemporal dementia and familial vascular dementia, which are more likely to occur in people under the age of 65. However, research shows that most cases of Alzheimers are not linked to genetics.How prevalent is Alzheimer's?Before the age of 65, only 1 out of every 1,000 people develop dementia. The chance of having the condition rises sharply with age to 1 person in 20 over the age of 65. Over the age of 80, this figure increases to 1 person in 5.How does Alzheimer's disease progress over time?Alzheimers is a degenerative disease that progresses in stages from mild to moderate to severe. The disease usually starts with mild symptoms such as increasing forgetfulness, then progresses to general confusion and disorientation. Finally, Alzheimers patients end up with severe symptoms, such as an inability to communicate or care for themselves.Caregiver Support for Alzheimers Disease Caring for a loved one with Alzheimers disease can be difficult from both a physical and emotional perspective. Family caregivers can benefit from trusted resources to help them more effectively communicate with their loved one with Alzheimers. Having the right resources and information can help them learn to manage difficult behaviors like agitation and wandering and ensure safety and fall prevention in the home. At BrightStar Care, we can help connect you with resources to support family caregivers, including support groups, education and training. For those with family members in the early stages of Alzheimers, we offer respite care to help give you a much-needed break. And as their condition progresses, our team can match you with compassionate, qualified memory care professionals. Reach out today and let us know how we can help.To learn more please contact us at 303-300-6666.
Our BrightStar Care Team, led by a Director of Nursing (RN), provides expert, compassionate, and personal in-home care. Our mission is to go above and beyond to deliver a Higher Standard of Care and nothing less. Your loved one deserves care thats nothing less than extraordinary. At BrightStar Care of St. Paul, our experienced, trustworthy, and compassionate care professionals provide a full range of services in the comfort and safety of home. From personal care to companion care, BrightStar Care offers quality home care services for children, adults, and seniors.Our services provided are: Transitional Care, Skilled Nursing Care, Senior Care, Personal Care, Companion Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Home Support + Outside Services and Child Care. Please call us at 651-770-8427 for an assessment of your needs.
Our BrightStar Care Team in St Paul, led by a Registered Nurse Director of Nursing, provides expert, compassionate, and person in-home care. Our mission is to go above and beyond to deliver a Higher Standard of Care and nothing less. Your loved one deserves care thats nothing less than extraordinary. At BrightStar Care of St. Paul, our experienced, trustworthy, and compassionate care professionals provide a full range of services in the comfort and safety of home. From personal care to companion care, BrightStar Care offers quality home care services for children, adults, and seniors.Our services provided are: Transitional Care, Skilled Nursing Care, Senior Care, Personal Care, Companion Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Home Support + Outside Services and Child Care. Please call us at 651-770-8427 for an assessment of your needs.
What is In-Home Care?Focused on helping you or your loved ones remain safe and independent in their familiar surroundings, in-home care includes professional services ranging from companionship to skilled nursing. Our experienced and compassionate caregivers and nurses at BrightStar Home Care South Minneapolis Metro provide everything from companionship and routine personal care to in-home medical services like wound care, home infusion therapy and medication management.Types of In-Home CarePersonal CareCompanion CareSkilled NursingShort-Term Transitional CareAlzheimer's and Dementia CareChild CareCompare In-Home Care OptionsIt can be overwhelming to find the right type of in-home care services for your loved one. Learn more about the differences between our services, including companion care, personal care, short-term transitional care and skilled nursing care.*Why Choose BrightStar Home CareWith an emphasis on comprehensive person-centered care, our team at BrightStar Home Care South Minneapolis Metro is committed to helping clients maintain their independence in the home where they feel comfortable. In addition to industry-leading employee screening and training, we provide Registered Nurse (RN) oversight for every individualized plan of care, ensuring that your loved ones care evolves as needs change. Discover what makes BrightStar Home Care different.Contact UsInterested in learning more about our in-home care services in South Minneapolis Metro? Contact us online or call 952.300.3698 to speak to one of our care experts today. You can also visit us at https://www.brightstarcare.com/locations/south-minneapolis-metro/*Skilled nursing care availability varies based on location. Please contact us to learn more about our range of services.