The time of day you’re most likely to spot dementia – and the 5 signs to watch out for
MOST of us get tired, or at least a little cranky, as the day winds on.
But this is especially the case for those who have dementia, who may experience a change in behaviour in the late afternoon.
The condition, known as ‘sundowning’, can have a profound effect on those with mid- to late-stage dementia – but it can also be a a warning sign during the early stages.
Hilda Hayo, chief admiral nurse and CEO of Dementia UK, said ‘sundowning’ causes a person suffering from dementia to become agitated or anxious around dusk.
“They can often believe they are in the wrong place or need to do something urgently,” she said.
“This can cause people to shout or become argumentative or restless and present challenges for the individual and their family or carers.”
Figures show that up to 30 per cent of people living with the brain-robbing disease experience ‘sundowning’.
Unfortunately, there is little scientific evidence to explain its cause, which means it remains difficult to treat.
But most experts agree it’s got something to do with people not getting enough sunlight in the winter afternoons and evenings.
“As darkness falls, streetlights come on, and people settle in for the evening,” Hilda said.
“These changes can make the person increasingly concerned that they are in the wrong place or have forgotten to do something vital during the day.”
Some studies suggests it could be caused by disturbances to the person’s natural body clock, caused by damage to the brain.
Alternatively, it can sometimes be a side effect of prescribed medicines.
Sleep and eating schedules can also play a role.
“As the day goes on, the person with dementia becomes more tired, and this can lead to their dementia symptoms worsening,” Hilda added.
“Hunger, thirst and physical pain can also play a part.”
The 5 signs of 'sundowning'
SOMETIMES you might see changes in the person’s behaviour in the later afternoon or towards the end of the day.
During this time, the person may become:
- Intensely distressed
- Anxious
- Agitated
- Have hallucinations or delusions
- Shout or become argumentative
Source: Alzheimer’s Society
There are currently around 900,000 people with dementia in the UK, with the number predicted to rise to 1.6million people by 2040, according to Alzheimer’s Society.
It is caused by damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections in the brain.
Most people with the disease are diagnosed late because tests are complex and symptoms can be vague.
A late diagnosis means sufferers get less time to try possible treatment options and make important decisions about their future.
How to help someone experiencing ‘sundowning’
If the person you are caring for is experiencing ‘sundowning’, you should first make sure all their needs are being met.
Sometimes, what seems like ‘sundowning’ could be the person trying to communicate a need, according to the Alzheimer’s Society.
This could be needing the loo, feeling hungry or being in pain.
If they seem agitated, try to calm them down and distract them by discussing a fond memory or offering food they enjoy.
Other signs and symptoms of dementia
DEMENTIA affects a person's mental abilities
Someone with it might display:
- Increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require concentration and planning
- Depression
- A change in personality or mood
- Periods of mental confusion
- Difficulty finding the right words
Source: NHS