---
title: "Sundowning: What It Is and What Helps"
description: "Sundowning explained: the late-day confusion and agitation some people with dementia experience, what may trigger it, and practical ways to help."
url: https://seniortransitionassistance.com/for-families/sundowning/
updated: 2026-10-09
site: Senior Transition Assistance
---

Dementia

# Sundowning: what it is and what helps

Many families notice a parent with dementia becomes more confused, anxious or restless as the day ends. It has a name, and there are things that help.

Talk it through with a person[  (800) 614-8388 ](tel:+18006148388)

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Quick answer

Sundowning is increased confusion that people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias may experience from dusk through the night, according to the Alzheimer's Association. It can include trouble sleeping, anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, pacing and disorientation. Helpful steps include a steady daily routine, daytime light and activity, a lighter evening meal, a well-lit and calm home in the evening, and talking with the doctor about possible causes like infections or sleep problems.

**Last updated October 9, 2026** Costs are published medians or typical ranges with a named source, never quotes. Every community and agency prices differently.

**On this page**

1. [ What it can look like](#g-what-it-can-look-like)
2. [What may contribute](#g-what-may-contribute)
3. [What helps](#g-what-helps)
4. [When your parent is awake and upset](#g-when-your-parent-is-awake-and-upset)
5. [Talk to the doctor](#g-talk-to-the-doctor)
6. [Get support](#g-get-support)
7. [Questions](#g-faq)

## What it can look like

- More confusion late in the day.
- Anxiety, agitation or restlessness.
- Pacing or trying to leave.
- Trouble falling or staying asleep.
- Seeing things that aren't there.

## What may contribute

- Tiredness at the end of a full day.
- A new or confusing place.
- A mixed-up body clock.
- Low light and shadows.
- Picking up on stress around them.

## What helps

1. Keep a regular routine for waking, meals and bedtime.
2. Plan appointments, outings and bathing for the morning or early afternoon.
3. Get daytime sunlight and some activity, like a walk.
4. Offer a bigger lunch and a lighter dinner.
5. Keep the home well lit in the evening; reduce noise and TV.
6. Use soothing activities: music, photos, a favorite movie.
7. Limit daytime naps if nights are hard.
8. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol.
9. Note what happens before episodes to spot triggers.

## When your parent is awake and upset

- Approach calmly and ask what they need.
- Gently remind them of the time.
- Don't argue.
- Reassure them that everything is all right.
- Let them pace safely with supervision; don't use restraints.

## Talk to the doctor

Physical problems such as urinary tract infections, pain or sleep apnea can cause or worsen sleep problems. Non-drug approaches are usually tried first.

## Get support

Caring through sundowning is exhausting. See [caregiver burnout](https://seniortransitionassistance.com/for-families/caregiver-burnout/), and call the Alzheimer's Association helpline at 800-272-3900 any time.

### Nights getting harder?

We'll help you find home care, respite or memory care near Kansas City. Free.

[  (800) 614-8388 ](tel:+18006148388)[Have us call you](#g-form)

## Questions families ask

### What is sundowning?

Increased confusion and agitation some people with dementia experience from late afternoon into the night.

### What causes sundowning?

The exact cause isn't known. Tiredness, low light, routine changes and a disrupted body clock may contribute.

### How can I help someone who is sundowning?

Keep routines, get daytime light, lighten evening meals, keep the home bright and calm, and talk to the doctor.

### Is sundowning a reason to consider memory care?

If nights are unsafe or caregivers can't keep up, memory care or overnight help may be needed.

## Sources

- [Alzheimer's Association: Sleep issues and sundowning](https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/sleep-issues-sundowning)
- [Alzheimer's Association: Caregiving](https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving)

## Related guides

- [Stages of dementia](https://seniortransitionassistance.com/for-families/stages-of-dementia/)
- [Dementia home care](https://seniortransitionassistance.com/help/care-at-home/dementia-home-care/)
- [When is it time for memory care?](https://seniortransitionassistance.com/help/memory-care/when-is-it-time/)
- [Caregiver burnout](https://seniortransitionassistance.com/for-families/caregiver-burnout/)

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