by Shelley | Apr 28, 2026 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Sundowning is a common and challenging behavior experienced by people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It refers to a pattern of increased confusion, agitation, anxiety, or restlessness that typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening. While sundowning can happen at any time of year, many caregivers notice that symptoms intensify during the long days of summer.
Several environmental, biological, and behavioral factors help explain why this seasonal change can make sundowning more pronounced. Let’s take a look at what those might be so you can better help an older adult in your life who might be struggling.
Why Is Sundowner’s Syndrome Worse in Summer?
One of the primary reasons experts say summer might have an impact on a person with Alzheimer’s disease is the disruption of the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. Adults with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia already have a weakened ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles, and longer daylight hours can further confuse this system. In summer, the sun sets much later, which can delay the natural cues that signal it is time to wind down. For someone with cognitive impairment, this extended daylight can make it difficult to distinguish between late afternoon and evening, increasing disorientation and agitation.
Other factors that might play a role include:
- Increased exposure to light: Since the hours of sunlight extend into evening hours during the summer, it can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for promoting sleep. When melatonin production is delayed, individuals may struggle to feel tired at the appropriate time. This mismatch between physical fatigue and the brain’s ability to initiate sleep can lead to frustration, restlessness, and behavioral changes commonly associated with sundowning.
- Heat and physical discomfort: These can also cause difficulties with settling in on summer evenings. High temperatures can be challenging for everyone, but particularly for those with dementia who may have difficulty recognizing or communicating discomfort. Dehydration, fatigue, and overheating can all exacerbate confusion and irritability.
- Changes in routine: This is another important consideration. Summer often brings shifts in daily schedules—longer outings, visits from family, vacations, or altered meal times. While these changes may be enjoyable, they can also be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer’s, who typically benefits from consistent structure. Disruptions to routine can accumulate throughout the day, leading to increased confusion and emotional distress by evening.
- Greater environmental stimulation: Neighborhood activity, outdoor events, and extended daylight hours can create more noise and visual stimulation later into the evening. For someone with dementia, this can lead to sensory overload. As the day progresses, their ability to process stimuli diminishes, which may result in agitation, pacing, or even aggression as they struggle to cope.
- Fatigue: Longer days often mean more activity and less rest. Individuals with Alzheimer’s may not recognize their need for breaks, leading to exhaustion by late afternoon. This fatigue can reduce their ability to manage stress and confusion, making sundowning symptoms more intense.
Understanding why sundowning worsens in summer is essential for managing it effectively. Strategies such as maintaining a consistent daily routine, limiting evening light exposure, ensuring proper hydration, and creating a calm, low-stimulation environment in the late afternoon can help reduce symptoms. Closing curtains as the sun sets, using soft lighting indoors, and encouraging quiet activities can also support a smoother transition into the evening.
If you’d like to learn more about sundowner’s syndrome, “Sundowning Explained: What It Is and How to Manage It” is a good article to review. It covers causes of this behavior as well as tips for better management.
by Shelley | Mar 27, 2026 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
As the weather gets warmer and the days grow longer, many families look forward to spending more time outdoors. For caregivers supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, however, this seasonal change can bring new challenges—especially an increased risk of wandering.
People living with Alzheimer’s disease often feel a strong urge to move around or go outside, and warmer weather can intensify that desire. Understanding why wandering happens and taking preventive steps can help caregivers keep their loved ones safe while still allowing them to enjoy the season.
Why Wandering Happens
Wandering is a common behavior among people with dementia. Researchers believe wandering may occur for a few different reasons. The person might be trying to meet a physical need, such as hunger, thirst, or using the restroom.
In other cases, the older adult may be searching for something familiar, like a former home, workplace, or family member. Confusion about time and place can also lead someone to leave the house thinking they need to go to work or pick up a child from school.
Warmer weather increases outdoor activity in neighborhoods, which can make going outside appear inviting. If doors are open more often or family members are coming and going, it may be easier for someone with dementia to slip outside unnoticed.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of wandering.
- Establish a consistent daily routine.
One way to help prevent wandering is to establish a predictable daily routine. That helps reduce anxiety and restlessness, both of which can trigger wandering. Try to keep regular times for meals, exercise, bathing, using the bathroom, and bedtime. When people with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia know what to expect throughout the day, they often feel calmer and less likely to wander in search of something familiar.
Scheduling safe outdoor time can also help. Taking a walk together in the morning or sitting outside in a secure yard allows your loved one to enjoy fresh air without putting them at risk.
- Make the home environment safer.
Small changes around the home can reduce the likelihood of wandering. Consider installing door alarms or motion sensors that alert you if a door is opened. Placing locks higher or lower on doors—outside the person’s normal line of sight—may also help discourage attempts to leave.
Visual cues can be helpful as well. Some caregivers place a red STOP sign or a on the door, which may act as a psychological barrier for someone with dementia. Store coats, shoes, and other leaving home cues away from doors. Keeping doors closed and curtains drawn in the evening can also reduce visual triggers that encourage leaving.
- Use identification and tracking tools.
Even with precautions in place, wandering can still occur. Preparing ahead of time is essential. Make sure your loved one carries some form of identification at all times, such as a medical ID bracelet or necklace that includes their name and an emergency contact number.
Many families also choose to use GPS-enabled tracking devices that are designed like a watch or pendant or can be clipped onto clothing. These tools can help caregivers quickly locate a person if they do leave the home unexpectedly.
- Keep neighbors informed.
Building a support network can greatly improve safety. Let trusted neighbors know that your loved one has dementia and may wander. Provide them with your contact information and ask them to call if they see the person outside alone or looking lost.
Check to see if your local police department has a program for registering residents with dementia. These are designed to help locate missing individuals with cognitive impairment. Local police departments often offer these programs so they can respond quickly if a wandering incident occurs.
- Watch for triggers.
Certain situations can increase the risk of wandering, including boredom, stress, or overstimulation. If you notice your loved one pacing, appearing anxious, or repeatedly going toward the door, it may be a sign they need activity or reassurance.
Offering a simple task, playing familiar music, or engaging in conversation can redirect their attention. Physical activity earlier in the day can also help reduce restlessness later on.
Enjoy the Season Safely
With planning and awareness, caregivers can create opportunities for safe outdoor experiences while minimizing the chances of wandering. One resource you might find helpful if you and your family want to take a vacation or simply need a break from caregiving is a respite stay for your loved one.
These short-term stays at Heritage communities provide you with peace of mind knowing your family member is in good hands. Call a location near you to learn more!
by Shelley | Feb 27, 2026 | Alzheimer's and Dementia, Dear Donna
Dear Donna:
My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease about three years ago. Recently, my dad—her primary caregiver—has noticed her anxiety increasing. We’ve been trying to figure out ways to manage it without resorting to medication.
I’ve heard that spending time in nature can be beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. My parents were always outdoor people prior to my mom’s diagnosis. They loved gardening, spending time at nearby lakes, and strolling through one of the many parks we have in our community.
How can we safely use my mom’s love of nature to decrease her level of anxiety and improve her quality of life? I’m not sure how to manage it.
Sincerely,
Jamie in Holland, MI
Using Nature to Help Manage Anxiety for a Senior with Alzheimer’s
Dear Jamie:
Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s often means helping them navigate anxiety, restlessness, and agitation that can arise from confusion or overstimulation. You are correct in thinking that nature might offer some solutions. Nature can be a powerful, gentle tool for calming these symptoms. We often use nature activities with residents in our specialized dementia care communities.
For caregivers, incorporating simple, structured nature-based tasks into daily routines can reduce anxiety while creating moments of connection and purpose. Here are a few ideas I hope you and your dad will find helpful:
- Spend supervised time outside: One of the most effective approaches is guided outdoor time. Short, predictable walks in a familiar setting—such as a backyard, garden, or quiet park—can help regulate mood. Keep walks brief and unhurried, focusing on sensory experiences rather than distance. The two of you can encourage your mom to notice birds, feel sunlight, or listen to leaves moving in the wind. Walking the same route each time builds familiarity, which reduces anxiety.
- Tackle simple garden projects: Hands-on gardening projects are especially beneficial because they provide engagement and a sense of accomplishment. Choose simple, failure-resistant tasks, such as planting large seeds, watering plants, or harvesting herbs. Raised beds or container gardens are ideal, as they reduce physical strain and keep tasks visually clear. Avoid complicated instructions; instead, demonstrate each step and work alongside your mom. The rhythm of gardening can be soothing, while the tactile experience of working with soil and plants grounds the person in the present moment.
- Bring nature indoors: When the weather is bad, indoor nature activities can be fun. Creating a small “nature station” can be calming and purposeful. This might include arranging flowers, sorting smooth stones or pinecones, or caring for houseplants. Caregivers can guide projects such as wiping leaves with a damp cloth or transferring water to plants using a small watering can—tasks that feel meaningful without being overwhelming.
- Plan nature-based sensory projects: These can also be effective tools for managing Alzheimer’s-related anxiety. You or your dad could sit with your mom to listen to nature sounds, such as birds or ocean waves. Visual cues—like watching fish in an aquarium, clouds through a window, or birds in the trees—can also enhance the calming effect. Even opening a window for fresh air and natural light may noticeably shift mood. Creative projects inspired by nature also support emotional regulation. Simple activities like leaf rubbing, painting rocks, or assembling a small nature collage allow for self-expression without requiring memory or complex skills. Focus on the process, not the result, and offer encouragement rather than correction.
Finally, an article you might be interested in reading is “Tips for Gardening with a Senior Who Has Dementia.” It covers topics ranging from how to include your mom in garden planning to looking out for plants that might be toxic if ingested.
Kind regards,
Donna
by Shelley | Dec 29, 2025 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Dear Donna:
My mom has Alzheimer’s and has been living with my family for the past few years. While her disease is still considered to be mid-stage, one concern we have trouble managing is when the time changes here in Michigan. It seems to really disrupt her sense of well-being and ramps up her agitation.
In anticipation of the spring time change, I’m wondering if you have any tips for helping us better support her. We would appreciate any suggestions.
Sincerely,
Lisa in Saugatuck, MI
Tips to Help a Senior with Alzheimer’s Navigate Seasonal Time Changes
Dear Lisa:
This is a great observation! As one of the largest providers of Alzheimer’s care in Michigan, it’s a change in behavior we see often, too.
For most people, the shifts caused by Daylight Saving Time—either gaining or losing an hour—pass with only minor inconvenience. But for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, even a small disruption in daily rhythm can cause confusion, agitation, or a temporary worsening of symptoms. Understanding why this happens and knowing how to prepare can make this seasonal transition much smoother.
Why Time Changes Can Be Hard for People with Alzheimer’s
Because memory is impacted by this disease, people living with Alzheimer’s often rely heavily on routine. Predictable schedules offer structure and emotional security, helping them feel anchored throughout the day.
A sudden change in light patterns, such as darker mornings in fall or brighter evenings in spring, can confuse the body’s natural clock. This internal clock, known as circadian rhythm, regulates sleep, hunger cues, energy levels, and even mood.
Because Alzheimer’s disease affects the parts of the brain that manage time perception and sleep-wake cycles, these changes can be especially disruptive. It’s common to see:
- Increased confusion, particularly in the late afternoon or early evening
- Sleep disturbances, such as waking up earlier or having trouble falling asleep
- Worsening of “sundowning” symptoms, including agitation, pacing, or restlessness
- Irritability or anxiety as the person struggles to understand why the environment feels “off”
Even though the clock changes by only one hour, the shift in daylight can feel much more dramatic for someone already coping with cognitive changes.
How Caregivers Can Prepare and Reduce Stress
The good news is that with a few thoughtful adjustments, you can help ease the transition for a loved one with Alzheimer’s and minimize the impact.
- Adjust routines gradually.
In the week leading up to a time change, try shifting daily activities by 10–15 minutes each day. Adjust wake-up times, meals, medication schedules (if appropriate), and bedtime slowly rather than all at once. This gentle transition helps the body adapt more naturally.
- Use light to your advantage.
Light is one of the strongest tools for regulating circadian rhythm. A well-lit environment can reduce restlessness and support clearer thinking.
- In the fall, when evenings become darker earlier, add indoor lighting in the late afternoon to reduce confusion.
- In the spring, when mornings become brighter, open blinds early to help the body wake up naturally.
- Maintain familiar rhythms.
Even when the clock changes, the overall pattern of the day should remain as steady as possible. Keep meals, walks, bathing, and relaxing activities in the same order and general timeframe. Consistency builds comfort.
- Reduce stimulation during the transition.
If your loved one experiences sundowning, keep evenings calm. Lower noise levels, limit screen use, and choose soothing activities such as listening to music, folding towels, or looking at photo albums.
Predictability helps reduce anxiety.
- Monitor sleep and adjust gently.
A slight change in sleep patterns after a time shift is normal. If your loved one wakes too early or struggles to settle at night, encourage restful habits. Those can include soft lighting, warm beverages without caffeine, and a quiet pre-bed routine. Avoid forcing sleep, which may increase agitation.
- Be patient and reassuring.
A calm, steady presence is one of the most valuable tools you have. Offer reassurance, speak gently, and expect that your loved one may need extra support for a few days.
One final tool you might find helpful is this article, “How to Manage Sleep Problems in Adults With Alzheimer’s.” It has ideas you might find useful.
Kind regards,
Donna
by Shelley | Dec 1, 2025 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Winter can be a challenging season for people living with dementia and their family caregivers. Cold weather, shorter days, and holiday disruptions can create confusion, agitation, and increased risk of accidents. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or friend, preparing a winter safety plan can make a tremendous difference in keeping your loved one safe.
Below is a practical winter safety checklist to help guide you through the season.
6 Winter Safety Tips for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
- Keep the Home Warm and Safe
✔ Check the heating system.
Ensure the furnace or heating system is working properly before the cold weather sets in. Schedule an annual inspection, replace filters, and keep vents clear.
✔ Maintain a safe indoor temperature.
People with dementia may not recognize when it’s too cold. Keep indoor temperatures between 68–72°F (20–22°C). Avoid space heaters, as they can be fire hazards, or choose models with automatic shut-off features and safety guards.
✔ Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and test them monthly. Make sure chimneys and vents are clear if you use fireplaces or gas appliances.
✔ Reduce fall risks.
Cold weather often brings wet shoes, snow, and cluttered walkways. Use non-slip mats at entrances, keep pathways clear, and mop up any moisture immediately. Add night-lights in hallways and bathrooms to prevent disorientation on dark winter evenings.
- Dress for Warmth, Safety, and Comfort
✔ Layer clothing appropriately.
People with dementia often struggle to recognize temperature changes, so it’s important to help them dress in warm sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thermal socks.
✔ Protect extremities.
Make sure hats, gloves, and scarves are readily available. Mittens are often better than gloves for people with dexterity challenges. For staying warm indoors, provide slippers with non-slip soles to help prevent falls indoors.
✔ Avoid confusion with clothing.
Lay out clothes in the order they should be worn, and remove off-season garments from closets to simplify choices.
- Plan for Outdoor Safety
✔ Supervise outdoor activities.
If your loved one enjoys walking, ensure that someone accompanies them. Ice and snow can make surfaces dangerously slippery, and individuals with dementia may underestimate the cold or become disoriented.
✔ Utilize GPS tracking devices.
Wandering risk increases during the winter when visibility is low. Ensure your loved one wears an ID bracelet or carries an identification card with contact information. Also, consider investing in GPS-enabled wearable devices to help locate them if they wander.
✔ Clear walkways.
Keep steps and driveways free of snow and ice. Use pet-safe ice melt and place sturdy handrails near entrances.
- Monitor Health and Nutrition
✔ Encourage proper hydration and nutrition.
Cold weather can reduce thirst, but dehydration is still a risk in the winter. Offer warm drinks like tea or broth, and prepare nutritious soups and stews that provide comfort and energy.
✔ Manage medications carefully.
Ensure medications are taken as prescribed. Store them safely away from freezing temperatures or direct heat sources.
- Promote Emotional Well-Being
✔ Keep a consistent schedule.
Shorter days and longer nights can worsen confusion and sundowning. Try to stick to a regular schedule whenever possible, such as getting up and going to bed at the same times each day. That prevents your loved one from having to rely on short-term memory, which is often compromised early in the disease process.
✔ Bring light into the home.
Open curtains during the day and use bright, full-spectrum lights in the evening to help regulate circadian rhythms. People with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia often struggle with getting their days and nights mixed up.
✔ Stay socially connected.
Winter isolation can lead to depression and anxiety. Arrange regular phone calls, video chats, or safe visits from friends and family. Listening to music, looking at photo albums, or doing simple crafts together can lift spirits and keep the mind active.
- Prepare for Emergencies
✔ Create an emergency kit.
Make sure to create an emergency kit for your car just in case you run into trouble away from home. Include warm blankets, a flashlight, batteries, bottled water, snacks, medications, and a list of emergency contacts.
✔ Have a power outage plan.
Know where flashlights and extra batteries are stored, and consider a generator for critical medical equipment.
✔ Share your plan.
If your family member still lives alone, inform close neighbors about their condition. They can help check in during severe weather or power outages.
Specialized Dementia Care at Heritage
For many families, caring for a senior loved one with dementia at home can become overwhelming. Loved ones worry about safety, nutrition, isolation, and more. If that sounds familiar, we invite you to schedule a visit to a Heritage dementia care community near you.
Our dedicated memory care programs help adults with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia live their best quality of life. Call us to set up a time for a personal visit and tour!
by Shelley | Jun 27, 2025 | Alzheimer's and Dementia
Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis for a loved one can be overwhelming, emotional, and downright frightening. While there’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are steps you can take immediately after diagnosis to help manage the condition. This includes some suggestions that researchers believe might help slow the disease’s progression.
Here’s a practical list to help families navigate this new chapter with confidence and care.
What’s Next When the Diagnosis Is Alzheimer’s Disease
- Research the disease.
Start by learning about Alzheimer’s disease. It’s a progressive brain disorder that gradually affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Understanding what stage your loved one is in can help you anticipate their needs.
Also, be sure to ask the doctor specific questions such as:
- How advanced is the disease?
- What symptoms should we expect next?
- Are there any new medications that might slow progression?
Reliable sources like the Alzheimer’s Association provide up-to-date, trustworthy information and tools for caregivers and families.
- Build a support team.
After the diagnosis, schedule follow-up appointments with recommended specialists. This might include a neurologist or geriatrician. It’s also helpful to meet with a social worker or case manager who can guide you through care options, resources, and support programs in your area.
Don’t underestimate the importance of emotional support. Reach out to a local or online Alzheimer’s support group for caregivers. Connecting with others going through similar experiences can be both reassuring and helpful.
- Begin legal and financial planning.
It’s crucial to start or review existing legal and financial planning while your loved one is still able to participate in decisions. Important steps include:
- Establishing or updating a power of attorney (for finances and healthcare)
- Creating a living will or advance directive
- Reviewing bank accounts, insurance policies, and estate plans
- Exploring long-term care insurance or Medicaid planning
- Create a care plan.
A care plan outlines how your loved one will be supported now and in the future. Consider who will assist with daily tasks, attend medical appointments, and help manage medications. Think about both current and long-term care needs.
It’s also important to keep the senior engaged in activities they enjoy. Staying mentally and socially active can help maintain quality of life and slow cognitive decline.
- Make the home safe.
Evaluate your loved one’s living environment to ensure it’s safe and dementia-friendly. Simple changes like labeling cabinets, removing tripping hazards, and installing grab bars can make a big difference.
As the disease progresses, you may need to add locks to exterior doors to prevent wandering or use GPS tracking devices for safety. Researchers say that an estimated 60% of people with Alzheimer’s will wander from home at some point. And those who wander once are more likely to do so again.
- Take care of the caregiver.
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Don’t try to do everything alone. It’s essential for caregivers to take breaks, ask for help, and care for their own mental health. Take time now to explore nearby respite care services, adult day programs, and dementia care communities.
- Try to be flexible and empathetic.
With time, you’ll likely witness many changes in your loved one. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that can be difficult for both the person living with it and those who love them. Remember, what works today might not work next year—or even next week. Be prepared to adjust routines, seek new resources, and approach each day with patience, empathy, and understanding.
Specialized Dementia Care at Heritage
With eight specialized dementia care programs across the state of Michigan, Heritage leads the way in caring for adults with different types of memory loss. We invite you to call a location near you to learn more or to schedule a private tour at your convenience.
