Sundowning - Benefit of Geriatric Psychiatrist

DeeExp

My mom's "sundowning" is increasing. It is starting earlier in the day and the episode is lasting longer, and it is an every day occurrence. She wants to go home, not realizing that where she is is home. She thinks home is where her mother, siblings or children are, but doesn't know where that is.

Has anyone used a geriatric psychiatrist who recommended some ways to deal with this condition? If medication was prescribed, what results did it have and how pleased were you with the results? 

My mom's neurologist has prescribed a medication for the more severe episodes; however, it takes some time for it to take effect and it does make her drowsy. 

jfkoc

A psychiatrist is specifically trained on the use of drugs.

Here is a great thread for you;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmPQLf9IUNI

Lor2014

A low dose of the med could be given daily. That is one option.

DeeExp

Thank you, I see there are many good videos on good topics.

rzrbaxfan

Sundowning for us included occasional urination on the floor and some aggression, but mostly just some harmless wandering.  We are on donepezil, started off on 5 mg, now on 10 mg.  All I can say is that we don't have the peeing and the aggression is toned down, but the wandering is still going on, and she rarely sleeps for more than 4 hours at a time.  I don't think she has laid down to sleep for a solid nights sleep in 5 years.