If you are caregiving for a person who experiences more confusion and agitation when the sun goes down—this is your peak season for stress.
Plan to hire holiday caregivers who can stand by and assist you with diffusing the individual and also preparing the meals, and have them do activities around the early day, including an early, hearty dinner.
A trained certified nurses assistant knows what to do to ameliorate Sundowners in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients, so call the agency you trust and get a relief pitcher at a minimum 3 times per week for a few hours.
Follow simple some simple rules and write down what works for your loved one such as, and use only unsweetened beverages that have distinct flavor without needing to add anything, like herbal tea, especially mint or chamomile. Warm chicken broth or comfort food, like a baked potato, may relieve some tension.
Sundowners now is linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Invest in some light therapy for your loved ones. Some great lanps are available online, and remember - they are most effective when used 30 minutes after waking.
That special time for yourself can be the difference between a short fuse and a warm smile!
Yvonne Lederer is community affairs liason for Stamford-based Fairfield Family Home Care, which provides personal, non-medical home care. For more information please log onto www.fairfieldfamilycare.com.
