Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are two of the most profound health challenges faced by elderly individuals today, and one common symptom that people with dementia often experience is sundowner’s syndrome. Sundowner's syndrome can be very difficult to manage, as it involves severe agitation and irritability in the evenings that can make it difficult for families and caregivers to provide a calm and supportive environment. But light therapy has emerged as an effective treatment option for reducing symptoms caused by sundowner's syndrome and providing some relief to those affected.
Light therapy is a form of phototherapy – or exposure to artificial or natural light – that helps alleviate certain physical, cognitive, or behavioral conditions.
Studies have shown that many people living with dementia benefit from increased exposure to bright light — particularly around the evening hours when sundowning begins. This particular type of phototherapy is called circadian rhythm entrainment, which involves using bright lights at specific times during the day to help regulate brain activity associated with sundowing symptoms like restlessness and difficulty sleeping.
One example of light therapy involves using full-spectrum lamps during the day, as well as incorporating more natural sunlight into daily activities if possible. Bright lights help keep daytime alertness high while also helping stimulate melatonin production during nighttime, which then acts as a natural sleep aid. However, not all patients respond positively to morning light therapy alone; some need both morning and mid-afternoon light treatments in order to successfully reduce sundowner’s syndrome symptoms. Furthermore, not all lighting devices are created equal: research suggests that blue-enriched white LED lights are superior in terms of triggering positive responses in people who are elderly or have dementia.
Light therapy has been found to be especially helpful when paired with other interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches coping skills like relaxation techniques and distraction activities that could help reduce stress levels associated with sundowning episodes. Combining both therapies may provide additional benefits beyond just using either one singularly – so consider talking to your healthcare team about best options for you or your loved ones if you feel overwhelmed by these distressing behaviors.
Overall, an increase in indoor lighting (both through artificial sources such as LED bulbs and natural sunlight) may help reduce disruptive behaviors associated with sun downing episodes in those living with dementia-related conditions.
Additionally, various styles of phototherapy may promote beneficial effects on physical health outcomes such as improved moods marking lessened levels of agitation throughout the day – making it easier for family members and caretakers alike!
If you’re curious about learning whether light therapy could be useful for managing Sundowner’s Syndrome symptoms among seniors in your life, speak with your healthcare professional about ways you can start implementing this evidence-based form of therapeutic intervention immediately moving forward!