Mrs. Singh becomes more restless, confused, and irritable each day in the late afternoon. This pattern is most consistent with what, and what helps?

• A.A need for punishment; keeping her alone in a dark room can help
• B.Normal aging only; no change in care or reporting is needed
• C.Sundowning; keeping a calm, well-lit environment and a consistent late-day routine can help
• D.Attention-seeking; ignoring her every afternoon can help

Why

Increased confusion and agitation in late afternoon or evening is called sundowning and is common in dementia. Consistent routines, adequate lighting, and calm activities help, and the pattern should be reported to the nurse.

Content outline: Psychosocial Care Skills - Emotional and Mental Health Needs: Dementia Care · From the Psychosocial Care Skills practice bank (PS-023).

Practice this domain as a full test

More Dementia & Alzheimer's Care questions

• Mr. Bennett, who has Alzheimer's disease, insists his late wife is in the hallway waiting for him. What is the best response?
• A resident with dementia keeps packing a bag and saying she must go home to cook for her children, who are now adults. How should the nursing assistant respond?
• A resident with dementia walks repeatedly toward the exit, saying he needs to get to work. What is the safest response?
• A resident with Alzheimer's disease asks, 'When is lunch?' five minutes after being told, and then asks again. How should the nursing assistant respond?
• Why is keeping the same daily routine and familiar objects helpful for a resident with dementia?