Managing Anger & Sundowners Syndrome in Loved Ones With Memory Loss
BRIGHTSTAR CARE MN
For more information about the author, click to view their website: BrightStar Care
Mar 19, 2023
Minnesota - Twin Cities Metro Area
Email US
Click to Email Us
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/
- To view the original version of this article visit seniorsbluebook.com/articles/Managing%20Anger%20&%20Sundowners%20Syndrome%20in%20Loved%20Ones%20With%20Memory%20Loss
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time. If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.
Grandfriends Adult Day Program: Compassionate Care for Adults Living with Dementia
GrandFriends Adult Day Program: Compassionate Care for Adults Living with DementiaThe GrandFriends Adult Day Program, located at the Via Health, Fitness, and Enrichment Center, has provided a safe and engaging environment for adults living with dementia for the past 30 years. Our mission is to offer older adults who need supervision and daily care with opportunities to stay mentally and physically healthy. Participation in the program can often delay or prevent the need for placement in a nursing home.Benefits of Adult Day ProgramsAdult day programs play a vital role in maintaining health and independence by providing: Enhanced Independence Encourages self-sufficiency in a supportive environment. Social Engagement Stimulates alertness and activity through meaningful interactions. Structured Activities Creates a sense of routine and anticipation. Physical Exercise Helps reduce anxiety, improve stamina, enhance balance, and promote better sleep. Support for CaregiversCaring for a loved one with dementia while managing work and family responsibilities can be overwhelming. GrandFriends offers caregivers much-needed respite, ensuring their loved ones receive professional and compassionate care in a secure setting.Program Expansion and Grant SupportIn August 2024, Via was one of 21 recipients selected to receive grant funding from the Alzheimers Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI). This funding has allowed us to: Expand Program Space Providing a more comfortable and accommodating environment. Hire Additional Staff Ensuring a 1:4 caregiver-to-client ratio for personalized care. Enhance Technology Introducing smart boards for interactive experiences like movies, museum tours, virtual bird watching, chair yoga, and games. Offer Individualized Programming Tablets with specialized games and activities tailored to each participants needs. Improve Transportation Services Clients within a 15-mile radius can access transportation for $3 per one-way trip. Program Details Hours: MondayFriday, 7:30 AM 5:30 PM (accommodating caregiver work schedules). Cost: $55 per day (one day per week) $50 per day (two or more days per week) To schedule a tour and assessment for your loved one, contact: Christy Harvison, GrandFriends Supervisor 251-470-5228 charvison@viamobile.org "This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $6,607,011 with 75 percent funded by ACL/HHS and $1,620,872 with 25 percent funded by non-government source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government."
Finding The Right Support When Facing Alzheimer's Disease
Every day at Harmony at Diamond Ridge we serve families with loved ones who are diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimers disease, and other memory loss diseases. There is a lot of information about memory loss in seniors and the research process can be overwhelming. Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the known risk factors for Alzheimer's disease include a family history of the disease, head injuries, and certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease typically develop slowly over time and worsen as the disease progresses. Some Alzheimers indicators include: Memory loss, especially of recent events Difficulty with language and communication Impaired judgment and decision-making Difficulty with problem-solving and planning Mood changes, such as depression or irritability Personality changes, such as becoming more withdrawn or aggressive Loss of interest in activities or hobbies Difficulty with basic activities of daily living, such as dressing and grooming Research into the causes and treatments of Alzheimer's disease is ongoing, and there is hope that future developments may lead to a better understanding of the disease and new treatments that can improve the lives of those affected by it. Harmony Senior Services Signature Memory Care Program Harmony Reflections is built on elements that support a senior living with Alzheimers disease. The Reflections Program has 5-Key Components; Family Focused, Wellness, Reflections Program: Art and Music, Dining with Dignity, and Harmony Square. Each component engages the resident's present-day experiences while stimulating positive memories through therapeutic visual and tactile aids. We partner with each resident's family to create their individual life story profile - a process for collecting and sharing the resident's life history, preferences, routines, and habits. If you are researching solutions for a loved one living with dementia or you would like to learn more about Harmonys Signature Memory Care Program, call a Harmony community today to speak with one of our dedicated caregivers.
Local Services By This Author
BrightStar Care South Minneapolis
Senior Transition Services 8900 Penn Ave S Ste 301, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55431Transitional care refers to the care provided following hospitalization or a stay in a rehabilitation center. Leaving the hospital or a skilled nursing facility to go home could lead to critical health and social problems for individuals, but in many cases this can be prevented. Professionally delivered care can help reduce undesirable outcomes like re-hospitalization, medication errors, falls, and it may even reduce long-term healthcare costs by helping to prevent the worsening of health conditions. BrightStar Care offers the services and expertise to help you make a safe and healthy recovery at home and lower the likelihood of a return trip to the hospital. Learn more about the different types of transitional health services offered by BrightStar Care of South Minneapolis Metro.
BrightStar Care South Minneapolis
Personal Care Assistance 8900 Penn Ave S Ste 301, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55431At BrightStar Care of South Minneapolis Metro, our fully screened and certified care professionals are available to assist with daily activities that require a little more hands-on, personal support like personal hygiene, feeding, and ambulation. Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is committed to delivering on our promise of A Higher Standard of Care. Personal Care Services OfferedAt BrightStar Care of South Minneapolis Metro, personal care services include:Personal safety home evaluationOutpatient pre- and post-op careFeedingOral and personal hygieneBathingToiletingAmbulationDressing and groomingExpertise with Alzheimers care memory loss, confusionReporting conditions and changes to supervisory RN and/or physicianBrightStar Care is ready to help. For more information about personal care services in South Minneapolis Metro, contact our local BrightStar Care office at (952) 300-3698.
BrightStar Care of Burnsville
Rehabilitation Services 12400 Portland Avenue, Burnsville, Minnesota, 55337When you or a loved one are recovering from a hospitalization or are being discharged from a rehabilitation center such as a skilled nursing facility (SNF), you may need short-term transitional home care. Our nurse-led care and team-focused approach are designed to optimize your health and well-being.Even if your loved one is receiving skilled nursing care from another agency (such as a Medicare-approved group), the companion care and personal care services we offer through BrightStar Home Care Burnsville / South St Paul provide a wonderful supplement. These services can help meet basic needs such as light housekeeping, companionship, family respite, dressing, personal hygiene, and ambulation (walking and moving around). Professionally delivered care can help reduce undesirable outcomes such as re-hospitalization, medication errors and falls; it may even reduce long-term healthcare costs by helping to prevent the health conditions from getting worse.Short-Term Transitional Home Care ServicesA Registered Nurse (RN) from BrightStar Home Care Burnsville / South St Paul oversees the plan of care to help provide a safe transition back home. Our team provides a wide range of services to support a variety of health needs such as: COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): Well coach proper inhaler use, provide medication reminders and support habits to improve wellness. Diabetes: We will conduct foot inspections and perform blood glucose level checks, as well as provide family education. Heart Attack/AMI (Acute Myocardial Infarction): Well provide education and support to develop new lifestyle habits that promote heart health. Heart Failure: Well help manage medication adherence, diet, and exercise. Pneumonia: Well provide RN-led medication management, help manage oxygen therapy and offer personal care. Post-Operative: We will assist with surgical recovery in the comfort of home. Stroke: We will help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like eating, dressing and mobility, as well as promote fall safety, offer medication reminders and provide transportation to physician appointments or therapy (physical, occupational and/or speech). Therapy for Post-Op or Stroke: We also have physical, occupational and speech therapists who can provide rehabilitation in your home. Care Paths Deliver Superior OutcomesOne of the unique services we offer is Care Paths for Falls and Change of Condition. Although care paths are common, weve taken this approach farther by building person-centered and condition-specific Care Paths based on your loved ones unique needs, current conditions and past medical history.Using our proprietary technology, our caregivers can help predict and prevent a fall or worsening of your family member's current condition. When a change of condition is identified, we will communicate that information immediately to the supervising nurse at BrightStar Home Care Burnsville / South St Paul and/or your loved ones physician so any needed action can be taken.