I agree with those who are concerned about the effect of medications on the elderly. They just do not metabolize meds the same way younger people do, and unfortunately some physicians overmedicate. Anesthetics, and the shock to the body of surgery can cause confusion and other behaviors associated with sundowners. I am concerned about the lack of education people are getting regarding their elderly, especially as it seems people have not been told that an infection in an elderly person can cause temporary dementia-like symptoms. In regard to behaviors worsening when they are moved about, yes another downer to getting old…a move to a new place can cause confusion/disorientation. Check with your provider regarding the long time use of meds like Ativan..they can lose their effectiveness after even 2 weeks. To all of you who are caretakers, do take care of yourselves..if it seems impossible, find a way..that is extremely important

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