Which symptom is expected in a client with moderate dementia?

Sundowning is a common symptom associated with moderate dementia, where a client experiences increased confusion and agitation as the day progresses, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. This phenomenon is often exacerbated by factors such as fatigue, and changes in the environment, or lighting, which can disturb the client’s sense of reality and increase disorientation.

In the context of moderate dementia, the individual may struggle with memory impairment, difficulty in communication, and challenges with daily activities, which leads to heightened anxiety as the day winds down. This time of day can evoke restlessness and behavioral issues, making sundowning a pertinent and expected symptom in this stage of dementia.

While hypervigilance and increased inhibition may occur in various psychological conditions, they are not characteristic of moderate dementia. Furthermore, complete memory loss does not accurately describe the condition; rather, individuals with moderate dementia still retain some memories and skills, but to a limited extent. Therefore, sundowning stands out as the most fitting symptom to anticipate in a client with moderate dementia, consistent with the behavioral patterns recognized in this stage of cognitive decline.