sundowning

noun

sun·​down·​ing ˈsən-ˌdau̇n-iŋ How to pronounce sundowning (audio)
: a state of increased agitation, confusion, disorientation, and anxiety that typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening in some individuals affected with dementia
Sundowning is a major problem in the middle and late stages of disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, that cause dementia.Patricia N. Prinz et al., The New England Journal of Medicine

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Cite this Entry

“Sundowning.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/sundowning. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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