Sundown syndrome--also called sundowning or sunsetting--is a behavior common in people with Alzheimer's disease. It usually occurs at dusk and into the evening hours. The episodes may last a few hours or throughout the night. While the exact cause of sundown syndrome is not known, experts believe there are several contributing factors. These include physical and mental exhaustion (after a long day) and a shift in the internal body clock caused by the change from daylight to dark. Some people with Alzheimer's disease have trouble sleeping at night, which may contribute to their disorientation. Medication that can cause agitation or confusion also may be a contributing factor to this syndrome. Sundown syndrome can be draining for the person with Alzheimer's disease and his or her caregivers. Update: I am saddened to report that Uncle Sammy passed away on July 29, 2012 We kept him at home as long as we could. His final hours were spent in a nursing home as we were unable to provide the full care he needed. Towards the end he could not walk and had problems swallowing food.

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