What is it called when dementia patients wander at night?
According to the Alzheimer's Association, an estimated 60% of people with dementia will wander at some point, and this behavior often occurs at night, a phenomenon known as "sundowning". This term refers to a state of increased confusion and agitation that begins in the late afternoon and continues into the evening, often leading to restlessness, pacing, and wandering. The night wandering associated with sundowning presents significant safety concerns for both patients and caregivers.