It’s evening. The day’s to-do list is done. You’ve cooked, cleaned, maybe even managed a few quiet minutes—then suddenly, everything changes. Your loved one with dementia becomes unsettled. They’re confused, pacing, maybe accusing you of things that never happened. You try to stay patient, but nothing seems to work.
This late-day behavioral shift isn’t unusual. It’s called sundowning, and it can turn even peaceful afternoons into stressful nights. The causes can vary, but one often-overlooked factor might be found in their medications.
What Is Sundowning, Exactly?
Sundowning is a common symptom in dementia, typically showing up later in the day as confusion, anxiety, agitation, or even aggression. It often appears just as the light begins to fade and routines start to wind down.
You might think the day went well—then, almost out of nowhere, things spiral. While triggers like exhaustion or lighting changes can play a role, medications may also be adding fuel to the fire.
Dementia and Medication Interactions: Sundowning
Many medications that are safe—or even helpful—for older adults can have unintended side effects when dementia is involved. These include:
- Anticholinergics – Found in many sleep aids and bladder control medications, these can negatively affect memory and clarity.
- Benzodiazepines – Drugs like Ativan or Xanax, meant to reduce anxiety, can actually lead to more confusion or disinhibition in those with cognitive decline.
- Certain antidepressants or antipsychotics – For some people, these increase restlessness or irritability instead of calming them.
- Over-the-counter sleep meds – Even something as seemingly mild as a nighttime cold remedy can disrupt cognition in dementia.
These medications aren’t “wrong,” but their effects can change in someone with memory loss—especially as the day wears on.
What Can You Do?
If you’ve seen a sudden increase in sundowning behavior—or if it started after a new prescription—don’t wait. Bring a complete list of medications (including OTC and supplements) to your loved one’s doctor and ask if any could be contributing.
Sometimes a change in schedule or a lower dose can help. In other cases, switching to a different medication may provide relief.
It’s About More Than Meds
Sundowning can also be worsened by poor sleep, a lack of structure, too much noise, or even feeling hungry. And by evening, you’re likely running low on energy and patience, too.
That’s where a little help can go a long way.
In-Home Dementia Care Can Bring Relief—Day and Night
At Superior Senior Home Care, we specialize in supporting individuals with dementia—and the families who love them. We serve Santa Ynez, Lompoc, and Nipomo, and surrounding areas with experienced, compassionate caregivers who are trained to handle sundowning and other dementia-related challenges.
We’ll help create a structured day to reduce triggers, monitor medication effects, and provide comfort during those difficult evening hours. We also offer overnight care, giving you the chance to finally get some rest.
Want to learn how home care can lighten the load? Call 805-737-4357 today for your free in-home consultation.