Sundowners (or sundowning) refers to increased confusion, agitation, anxiety, or aggression that tends to happen in the late afternoon or evening, often triggered by low light or dusk. It's a recognized symptom in Parkinson's and can be really exhausting for both the person experiencing it and their care partner.
A Show Full Answer
Sundowners (or sundowning) refers to increased confusion, agitation, anxiety, or aggression that tends to happen in the late afternoon or evening, often triggered by low light or dusk. It's a recognized symptom in Parkinson's and can be really exhausting for both the person experiencing it and their care partner.
A MyParkinsonsTeam member described hearing voices from their refrigerator after sundown, noting the pattern made sense once they connected it to the time of day. Here are some strategies that may help reduce sundowning episodes:
- Keep lights bright in the evening — low light can trigger or worsen hallucinations and confusion
- Maintain a consistent routine — predictable schedules can reduce anxiety
- Stay calm and reassuring — avoid arguing or challenging what he believes is real
- Offer a gentle distraction — moving to a different room or starting a calming activity can help redirect
- Review medications with his doctor — timing of Parkinson's medications in the evening may play a role
If aggression and anxiety are happening daily, it's really worth raising this with his neurologist. There may be medication adjustments or other targeted strategies that could make evenings much more manageable for both of you.
July 25
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
