One of the unfortunate effects of dementia is sundowning. Our mother had it, my sister’s mother-in-law has it, and unfortunately so does our father. Each person is different, and some methods work and some don’t.  You will just have to find through trial-and-error. One method that caught my eye (which we haven’t tried yet ) is melatonin.

Melatonin – What is it?

Melatonin is a natural hormone made by the pineal gland. This gland is located just above the middle of the brain. During the day the pineal gland is inactive. When the sun goes down and darkness occurs, the pineal is activated by the supra-chiasmatic nucleus (SCN )and begins to actively produce melatonin, which is released into the blood. Usually, this occurs around 9 pm. As a result, melatonin levels in the blood rise sharply and alertness decreases.

How does it help with Sundowning?

Some methods typically used for treating sundowning symptoms are: full spectrum lightbulbs (which can be costly), changing sleep times, exercise, and diet changes.

Melatonin supplements  cause melatonin levels in the blood to rise earlier than the brain’s own production accomplishes. This causes a kind of hypnotic effect calming agitated Alzheimer’s sufferers —hence, inducing sleep. Studies are mixed and some people actually can get worse. However, some have shown some progress. Melatonin is also used for treating Alzheimer’s Disease itself.

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• Melatonin – When Good Sleep Really Matters! (getfitanna.wordpress.com)
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