Episode 6: Sundowning — Calmer Evenings for People Living with Dementia

Overview
Today’s episode explains sundowning in clear, practical terms and demonstrates supportive responses care partners can use right away. We illustrate real-world dynamics—like exit-seeking with a specific destination in mind—and how to keep everyone safer while preserving dignity.

Segment guide

1. Sundowning 101 (Studio Teach-In):
   
   
   • Definition, typical timing, and common behaviors (confusion, agitation, elopement).
     
      
   • Why late-day fatigue and sensory overload can intensify reactions.
     TLA episode on sundowning, epis…
     
      
2. Story Segment — “Jack at 5 p.m.”
   
   
   • Reenactment of repetitive calls to “find the house.”
     
      
   • How validating feelings + purposeful evening roles reduced distress in a supportive environment.
     TLA episode on sundowning, epis…
     
      
3. Skills You Can Use Tonight (Demonstration):
   
   
   • Reduce stimuli: softer lighting, quieter space, familiar music.
     
      
   • One-step prompts and reassuring body language.
     
      
   • Comfort checks (pain, hunger, temperature).
     
      
   • Calm redirection using meaningful objects, photos, or simple tasks.
     
      
   • Elopement safety setup: door alerts, ID, neighbor call tree.
     
      
4. Expert Q&A (Viewer Questions):
   
   
   • “How do I respond when they insist they must ‘go home’?”
     
      
   • “What helps if bathing triggers agitation?”
     
      
   • “How can I plan a safer evening routine when I’m solo?”
     
      
5. Take-Home Toolkit (On-Screen Graphic):
   
   
   • 6-item evening routine template
     
      
   • Trigger tracking sheet (note time, place, noise, lighting, hunger/pain, demands)
     
      
   • Emergency info card (photo, meds, contacts)
     
      

Language & approach
We use person-centered language: person living with dementia, care partner, condition, changed behavior—and frame actions as communication, not “misbehavior.”

Viewer prompt
Try the routine template for 7 days and track triggers. Share outcomes with us for a follow-up segment.

Note
Content is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals for individualized care.

Now Streaming On:
E360tv | YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify and 26+ global networks

Follow & Connect with Lisa Skinner:
🌐 Website: dementiaawarenessspeaker.com
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LisaSkinnerSpeaks
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisaskinnerauthor
📖 Book: https://amzn.in/d/2cLj0lf

Hashtags:

#LisaSkinner #TruthLiesAndAlzheimers #Alzheimers #Dementia #DementiaCare #AlzheimersAwareness #MemoryLoss #Caregiving #CaregiversSupport #ElderCare #DementiaSupport #BrainHealth #SeniorCare #CaregiverTips #AlzheimersDisease #LivingWithDementia