What causes Sundowner’s and triggers the behaviors and mood changes?
There seem to be as many theories of the causes of Sundowner’s Syndrome as there are symptoms. Experts agree on a few, and other experts have formed different ideas. Medical research continues, and it’s important to stay up-to-date as more possible causes emerge.
Some medical professionals believe that the syndrome is an accumulation of all of the sensory stimulation from the day that starts to overwhelm and cause stress. Others speculate that it is caused by hormonal imbalances that occur at night. Another theory follows that the onset of symptoms at night is simply due to fatigue; while some believe it has to do with the anxiety caused by the inability to see as well in the dark.
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Elayne Forgie has been a professional geriatric care manager for over 20 years and was a founding Board Member of the Florida Geriatric Care Managers Association. She is the President/CEO of ElderCare at Home, Inc. and The Alzheimer's Care Resource Center. Information on this website or contained in this article is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider.
