sun·down·ing
| \ ˈsən-ˌdau̇n-iŋ
\
\
Medical Definition of sundowning
: 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
Learn More About sundowning
Cite this Entry
“Sundowning.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/sundowning. Accessed 19 Aug. 2022.
Style: MLA
MLA
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Test Your Vocabulary
Odd Habits and Quirks
-
- Which of the following best describes an easily irritated person?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
What Are You Wearing?
Roll up your sleeves and identify these garments
Take the quiz
-
Name That Animal: Volume 2
Can you tell a meerkat from a wombat?
Take the quiz
-
Spell It
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
Take the quiz
-
Spelling Bee Quiz
Can you outdo past winners of the National Spelli...
Take the quiz
Share sundowning