Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It can make everyday tasks difficult and stressful for people who have it and their caregivers. There are many types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. There is no cure for dementia, but there are some treatments and strategies that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.
One of the common challenges that people with dementia face is sundowning. This is a term that describes the increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety that some people with dementia experience in the late afternoon or evening. Sundowning can make the person restless, angry, or paranoid. It can also impact their sleep and mood. Sundowning can be triggered by various factors, such as low lighting, fatigue, noise, medication, or hormonal changes.
There is no definitive treatment for sundowning, but some possible ways to prevent or reduce it are:
- Keeping a regular routine and schedule for the person with dementia
- Providing adequate exposure to natural light during the day and dimming the lights at night
- Creating a calm and comfortable environment for the person with dementia
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the evening
- Playing soothing music or sounds
- Engaging the person with dementia in relaxing activities, such as reading, coloring, or puzzles
- Providing reassurance and comfort to the person with dementia
Another surprising and simple way to help people with dementia who experience sundowning is to give them ice cream. Yes, you read that right. Ice cream, the delicious frozen dessert that many of us enjoy, can have a positive effect on people with dementia. How does ice cream help with dementia? Here are some possible explanations:
- Ice cream can provide sensory stimulation, which can calm and soothe the person with dementia. The cold, creamy, and sweet texture of ice cream can stimulate the taste buds, the mouth, and the brain. This can distract the person with dementia from their negative emotions and thoughts and make them feel happy and satisfied.
- Ice cream can trigger the release of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, motivation, and reward. Dopamine can make the person with dementia feel more alert, focused, and cheerful. It can also reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are common in people with dementia.
- Ice cream can evoke positive memories and associations, which can enhance the person’s sense of identity and well-being. Ice cream can remind the person with dementia of their childhood, their family, or their favorite occasions. It can also create a bond between the person with dementia and their caregiver, who can share the ice cream and the joy with them.
Of course, ice cream is not a magic cure for dementia or sundowning. It is not a substitute for medical care or professional advice. It is also important to consider the dietary needs and preferences of the person with dementia, such as allergies, diabetes, or lactose intolerance. Ice cream should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
However, ice cream can be a simple and effective way to help people with dementia cope with sundowning and improve their mood and well-being. It can also be a source of pleasure and happiness for both the person with dementia and their caregiver. So, the next time you see someone with dementia who is feeling restless, agitated, or anxious in the evening, why not offer them a scoop of ice cream? It might just make their day a little sweeter.
