Why Controlling Shadows Matters in Dementia Care

Many individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia experience sundowning. Symptoms of sundowning include confusion, anxiety, agitation, restlessness, hallucinations, or delusions.

While the exact causes of sundowning vary, shadows can contribute to these symptoms.

They may misinterpret shadows leading them to become even more stressed.

Common Sources of Shadows at Home

Many everyday items and lighting conditions can create shadows or visual distortions.

1. Uneven or Low Indoor Lighting

Dim rooms or areas with inconsistent lighting can create deep shadows, making it difficult to distinguish objects and spaces.

Examples include:

• Hallways with little natural light

• Burned-out or dim light bulbs

• Rooms lit by a single lamp instead of multiple light sources

2. Reflective Surfaces

Reflections can be misinterpreted for something else.

Common reflective surfaces include:

• Television screens when turned off

• Glass coffee tables

• Mirrors

• Marble or polished stone tabletops

• Glossy tile flooring

• Glass cabinet doors

• Stainless steel appliances

• Large windows at night

  
  
  
  

3. Sunlight and Window Shadows

As the sun sets, changing light can create moving or elongated shadows throughout the home.

Examples include:

• Trees or bushes casting shadows through windows

• Outdoor objects creating changing patterns on walls and floors

Tips for Reducing Shadows

While controlling shadows won't prevent sundowning, it can reduce one source of visual confusion that may contribute to distress.

Try these simple strategies:

• Turn lights on before the sun begins to set.

• Keep lighting consistent throughout the home while avoiding overly bright lights that may create glare or discomfort. Adjust the position of lights as needed to reduce shadows and ensure areas are evenly illuminated.

• Close curtains and blinds before dusk to reduce outdoor shadows.

• Reduce glare from reflective surfaces whenever possible. Use a table cover on glossy surfaces or cover the television screen when it is not in use to minimize reflections that may cause confusion.

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This article was made by  Elder Love USA.

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