Are dementia patients worse in the morning? Understanding 'Sunrise Syndrome'
While the well-known phenomenon of 'sundowning' describes increased confusion in the evening, studies and caregiver reports indicate that some dementia patients are worse in the morning, a pattern sometimes called 'sunrise syndrome'. This morning-time agitation and disorientation can be just as challenging, often stemming from fragmented sleep and the jarring transition from dream to reality. Understanding the specific triggers can help caregivers better manage these difficult periods and provide a calmer, more predictable start to the day.