As the sun begins to set, many families and carers of people living with dementia notice a heart-wrenching change. A previously calm individual may become increasingly restless, agitated, or confused.
This phenomenon — known as “Sundowning” — is one of the most challenging aspects of dementia care in Australia.
While medication has traditionally been the go-to solution, there is a growing shift toward non-pharmaceutical interventions. Matilda, an emotional AI robot, is at the forefront of this change, providing a calming anchor during difficult evening hours.
Learn more about Matilda’s role in dementia support:
👉 https://www.mymatilda.com.au/industries/aged-care
Sundowning is not a disease in itself, but a symptom of cognitive and sensory overload associated with dementia. Common triggers include:
Historically, evening agitation was managed using chemical restraints or sedatives, which carry risks such as increased falls and reduced quality of life.
Matilda offers a sensory-based, non-pharmaceutical alternative.
Predictability is one of the most effective tools for reducing anxiety.
Matilda can be programmed to initiate a consistent “Sunset Routine” at the same time each evening. This may include:
These repeated cues help signal to the brain that it is time to wind down, rather than react with fear or confusion.
Agitation during sundowning often stems from looping thoughts, such as repeatedly wanting to “go home.”
Matilda’s infinite patience allows her to:
She can then guide the resident toward a trivia game or a personalised photo slideshow displayed on a synced tablet, helping interrupt the anxiety loop.
Matilda can also support environmental regulation by:
Her embodied presence — soft voice, expressive eyes, gentle movements — helps ground individuals who feel disoriented or as though they are “drifting.”
Scientific evidence supporting these sensory approaches can be found here:
👉 https://www.mymatilda.com.au/the-science
Sundowning is often the tipping point where home care becomes unsustainable for family carers.
By acting as an active companion and a “second pair of eyes,” Matilda allows carers to:
Knowing that their loved one is calmly engaged significantly reduces household stress and carer burnout.
Yes.
Matilda uses emotion-tracking AI to identify changes in facial expression and vocal tone, enabling her to activate calming protocols before agitation escalates.
Yes.
Even when verbal communication is limited, Matilda’s music, movement, and physical presence can provide a powerful calming and soothing effect.
Sundowning does not have to define the end of each day.
With the right combination of routine, sensory support, and compassionate technology, evenings can once again become a time of peace and connection.
Discover the calming power of Matilda.
👉 Watch our Dementia Support video or speak with a consultant about home-based care solutions.
