What is the term for behavioral changes occurring in the evening?

The term for behavioral changes occurring in the evening is known as "sundowning." This phenomenon is commonly observed in individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, where they exhibit increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness as daylight fades and the evening approaches. The causes of sundowning are not fully understood, but it is thought that changes in the internal body clock, increased shadows, and fatigue can contribute to these behavioral shifts.

Understanding sundowning is important for caregivers and healthcare providers, as it allows them to implement strategies that can help manage these behaviors and create a calmer evening environment for affected individuals. Techniques may include establishing a comforting routine, minimizing noise and distractions in the evening, and ensuring that the person is well-rested throughout the day.

Night terrors, delirium, and affective disorders, while related to behavioral and psychological changes, pertain to different issues and contexts that do not specifically describe the time-related agitation or confusion seen in sundowning.