Sundowning and Dementia: How to Manage It (2026)

Claire Saltwater20 August 2026

Sundowning is a common part of dementia — a pattern of confusion, restlessness or distress that builds in the late afternoon and evening. It's tiring for everyone, but there's a lot that can help.

Why it happens, and what helps

Keeping the late afternoon calm and well-lit often makes a real difference.

In the moment

Arguing or over-explaining tends to make things worse — reassurance helps.

This is general information, not medical advice. If sundowning is severe or sudden, mention it to the GP — pain, infection or medication can be factors.

💬 Find the right care near you. Search the AskBart directory for homes, ratings and guide prices — or ask Bart for help.

Frequently asked questions

Is sundowning a normal part of dementia?

It’s very common, especially in the middle stages, though not everyone experiences it.

Do care homes manage sundowning well?

Good dementia homes are experienced with it and build calm, structured evenings — ask how they approach it.

Claire Saltwater

Editor · AskBart

Claire Saltwater is AskBart's Editor and a care-home industry veteran. One of AskBart's earliest team members, she has spent years working in and around social care — so she understands first-hand the difficult, often overwhelming decisions families face when choosing a care home. Claire writes and edits AskBart's advice guides with one goal: clear, genuinely independent information, free of jargon and sales pressure. Away from her desk she loves a good farmers' market and time with her two young children.