Sundowning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sundowning
[ˈsʌnˌdaʊnɪŋ ]
Definition
behavioral symptom
Sundowning is a phenomenon often associated with dementia and Alzheimer's disease, where individuals experience increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety during the late afternoon or evening hours. This behavioral symptom can lead to greater difficulty in communication and may cause caregivers distress. Symptoms can include restlessness, mood swings, and a tendency to wander. It is suggested that changes in light and routine during these hours may contribute to this condition.
Synonyms
evening confusion, nocturnal agitation.
Examples of usage
- The patient experiences sundowning every evening.
- Caregivers should be aware of sundowning as it can affect patient behavior.
- Sundowning can lead to increased anxiety for both patients and caregivers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Sundowning can be attributed to changes in the body's internal clock, causing confusion or increased agitation during the evening.
- People with Alzheimer's disease frequently exhibit this behavior, suggesting a connection between memory and natural light patterns.
Healthcare
- Caregivers can manage sundowning through routines that provide comfort and structured activities before evening.
- Certain environmental factors, like reduced lighting and increased shadows, can exacerbate symptoms, prompting strategies to ensure brighter, calmer spaces.
Pop Culture
- Television shows addressing dementia often highlight sundowning episodes to depict character struggles, raising awareness to the audience.
- Songs and literature occasionally explore the emotional landscape of twilight to symbolize confusion and change, reflecting on the human condition.
Historical Context
- Prior to modern understandings of dementia, sundowning behavior was often attributed to supernatural causes or simply dismissed as 'old age'.
- Cultural perspectives on aging and mental health have shifted dramatically, leading to increased research and awareness of sundowning.
Origin of 'sundowning'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'sundown', referring to sunset, and 'ing', indicating an ongoing state or process.
- It was first noted in the late 20th century, linking the behavior with the changes of light at different times of the day.
The term 'sundowning' combines 'sundown,' which refers to the time of day when the sun sets, and the suffix '-ing,' indicating an ongoing action or state. The concept has been recognized for many years, particularly in the context of dementia care. As understanding of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia has evolved, the term has been used more frequently to describe the behavioral patterns observed in these patients. The onset of symptoms typically occurs during the transition from daylight to nighttime, leading to increased confusion and disruption. Awareness of this phenomenon has prompted caregivers and health professionals to develop strategies to mitigate its impact, particularly as it relates to patient safety and emotional well-being.