Pacing. Fidgeting. Wandering. When you start to observe these issues in an individual with dementia, it’s time to do something before they escalate to aggression, agitation, or leaving the home. But identifying why the older adult is feeling uneasy is sometimes half the battle in easing restlessness in adults with dementia.
For starters, ask yourself the following questions:
- Could the person be hungry or thirsty?
- Are there visitors who might be producing anxiety or distress?
- Are they bored?
- Might they have to use the restroom?
- Is anything causing the individual pain or physical discomfort?
- Are there too many distractions in the room?
- Have they been sedentary too long and need to move?
If you’re unsure, try meeting potential physical needs first. Ask if they would be interested in a snack or something to drink. Look for nonverbal clues that may reveal distress, and call the doctor right away for direction if you suspect the individual is in pain.
If the issue appears to be emotionally driven, try distracting the individual with a calming activity that they really enjoy, such as listening to favorite music and dancing together to channel that restless energy in a positive manner. Take a walk outside, if weather permits, or move into another room of the house for a change of scenery and to read, work on a puzzle together, or engage in a hobby.
What Are the Unique Challenges of Sundowning?
Sundowning occurs late in the afternoon and into the evening, causing the individual to feel particularly anxious about being in the wrong place or wanting to go “home,” even if they are already at home. If restlessness is happening during this particular period of the day, it could be extremely challenging for family caregivers, who need to be able to rest and get a sufficient amount of sleep.
To help a person with sundowning, a team approach is generally best, allowing the primary caregiver to take the break they need at night while ensuring the person stays safe. Actions you can take include:
- Create a tag with contact and identifying information for the individual, or purchase an identity bracelet or necklace, and make sure the older adult is wearing it at all times.
- Talk to the person’s neighbors to let them know about the situation so they can help you keep watch in the event the person does manage to wander away from home.
Reach out to Independence-4-Seniors Home Care for a thoroughly trained and experienced dementia caregiver to take the night shift, or any other shift. We can provide someone you love with the patient, compassionate, and creative care they need to overcome restlessness and other difficulties of Alzheimer’s, while providing you with peace of mind and a much healthier life balance. Contact us at (630) 323-4665 to learn more about how our compassionate Alzheimer’s and dementia care in Oak Brook and the surrounding areas can help someone you love.