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Sundowners(4)

Hey all. I know Sundowners is definitely a big thing with AD. Recently, it's really been rough on my Grandfather. He sleeps pretty well once he falls asleep, but when he gets tired he starts talking about things we don't know about or remember, which makes it hard on both us and him. How do you guys handle it? Just agree with him and and let him talk about what he's remembering?

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  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User] Posts: 0
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  • LicketyGlitz
    LicketyGlitz Member Posts: 308
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    After the first few times when I was confused and saddened by the same behavior in my mom, I learned to ask questions just for the fun of her keeping a conversation going, and the amazement in where her imagination would lead her! Sometimes it went to a very dark place, so that was often difficult to turn around, but she'd be telling me some tale that I absolutely knew wasn't true and I start with "Wow! That's incredible! We're you brave, or scared?" Keep it going along those lines and just enjoy the ride, unless it's one of those not at all enjoyable tales, in which case sharpen your redirect skills and get to work!

    Good luck to both you and your grandpa.

  • mommyandme (m&m)
    mommyandme (m&m) Member Posts: 1,468
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    Yes, just engage and enjoy if possible.  

    My mother’s words make no sense so I cannot tell what she’s trying to express, really.  I just acknowledge and agree, ask for more info etc.   I can only tell by her facial expressions whether she’s concerned or happy about what she’s talking about.  I so wish I could understand the jumble regardless of if its real or not.  I’m glad she’s trying to share something at least and is still “verbal”.  I enjoy these “conversations” a lot.  

    Good thoughts for your journey being sent your way.  So sorry! 

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
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