urse Aide Practice Exam 2025 - Free Nurse Aide Practice Questions and Study Guide

Providing calming activities during late hours is beneficial for managing a resident's behavior during "sundowning," a phenomenon where individuals, particularly those with dementia, may experience increased agitation or confusion during the late afternoon and evening. Calming activities can include gentle music, reading, or engaging in simple, soothing tasks that promote relaxation and a sense of security.

This approach helps create a peaceful environment that can reduce anxiety and agitation, addressing the behavioral challenges that come with sundowning. It allows residents to wind down gradually, rather than becoming overstimulated as the day comes to an end.

In contrast, administering medication immediately is not always the first line of action for managing behavioral symptoms and can carry risks of side effects or dependency. Turning off all lights in the facility can contribute to confusion and fear in residents, as they may feel disoriented or insecure in darkness. Encouraging daytime napping can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, potentially worsening nighttime behaviors and increasing confusion when the sun goes down. Therefore, providing calming activities is a more effective and holistic approach to support residents facing sundowning.