Understanding Sundowning in Dementia
For many families in Christchurch and Tauranga caring for a loved one with dementia, evenings can be the hardest part of the day. As daylight fades, confusion and restlessness often increase — a common phenomenon known as sundowning.
Sundowning is not a separate disease, but rather a symptom pattern seen in people with dementia. It can cause agitation, pacing, irritability, or even fear as the day transitions to night. Understanding why it happens and learning how to respond calmly can make a big difference for both the person with dementia and their family.
What Causes Sundowning?
There’s no single reason why sundowning occurs, but several factors can contribute:
1. Disrupted body clock
Dementia affects the brain’s internal sense of time, causing confusion between day and night.
2. Fatigue
By evening, many people with dementia feel mentally and physically drained, making it harder to manage emotions.
3. Reduced lighting
As daylight fades, shadows appear and familiar spaces look different — often increasing confusion or fear.
4. Unmet needs
Hunger, thirst, pain, or needing the toilet can all intensify agitation when not recognised early.
5. Environmental triggers
Noise, clutter, or too much activity can overwhelm someone already feeling disoriented.
Recognising the underlying triggers is the first step toward easing the symptoms.
Practical Strategies for Families at Home
Learn more about our Overnight Care Service.
“Evenings Became Peaceful Again”
In one Christchurch home, a carer noticed that an elderly client, Margaret, became anxious and started pacing at sunset. Together, her daughter and the carer created a gentle evening routine — switching on warm lamps, serving herbal tea, and playing her favourite 1960s music.
Within two weeks, Margaret’s agitation had eased dramatically. Her daughter said, “We finally got our evenings back — and Mum smiles again before bed.”
Small changes, done consistently, can make evenings calmer and more positive for everyone involved.
When to Seek Extra Help
If sundowning becomes frequent, severe, or disrupts sleep for the whole household, it might be time to get professional guidance.
- Talk to your GP or memory clinic for advice on medication or underlying health issues.
- Connect with community support through Dementia NZ.
- Consider respite or dementia-specific care from trained carers who understand these behavioural patterns.
Bringing Calm Back to Evenings
Sundowning can be challenging, but with patience, structure, and understanding, evenings don’t have to be filled with stress. Many families in Christchurch and Tauranga find comfort in knowing they’re not alone — and that professional help is available whenever they need it.
Explore our services:
Contact us today to discuss a personalised plan.