As we welcome the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, we are reminded of the beauty of the changing seasons. The summer solstice, which occurs between June 20 and 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, marks the point at which the sun reaches its highest position in the sky, giving us extended daylight hours.
For many people, longer days bring more time outdoors and a renewed connection to nature. But for families caring for aging loved ones, especially those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, these longer hours of sunlight can bring unique challenges.
“Sundowning” refers to a pattern of increased confusion, anxiety, agitation, or restlessness that tends to occur in the late afternoon and evening in some individuals with dementia. The exact cause of sundowning isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to be related to changes in the body’s internal clock, fatigue, and difficulty separating daytime from nighttime.
During the weeks surrounding the summer solstice, longer daylight hours and shifts in natural light patterns can further disrupt these internal rhythms. The extended daylight may make it harder for those affected to recognize when evening is approaching, leading to greater disorientation and restlessness as the day winds down.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, environmental factors like increased shadows or changes in lighting during dusk can also contribute to sundowning behaviors. In the summer, when sunset may not occur until late evening, this transition period can feel especially long and confusing for seniors with cognitive challenges.
What Can Help
- Keep a consistent daily routine, including regular times for meals, activities, and rest.
- Close curtains or blinds before dusk to minimize visual confusion as natural light fades.
- Use soft indoor lighting in the early evening to create a sense of calm and continuity.
- Provide quiet, soothing activities before bedtime to support a smooth transition to nighttime.
- If sundowning symptoms feel especially challenging during the longer summer days, know that you’re not alone, and that support is available.
At Home Eldercare understands the stress that sundowning can place on families, especially during seasonal transitions like summer. Our trusted home care, companion care, and respite care services can provide support for your loved one and relief for you.