Which of the following best describes the phenomenon of sundowning?

Sundowning refers to a pattern of behavior commonly observed in individuals with dementia and can lead to increased confusion, agitation, or other behavioral changes as the day progresses into the evening. This phenomenon often occurs as natural light decreases, which can exacerbate the cognitive challenges already faced by these individuals.

The correct choice highlights the deterioration of cognitive skills at night, aligning with the typical experience of those who exhibit sundowning symptoms. As evening approaches, the lack of sunlight and changes in the environment can lead to heightened levels of confusion, anxiety, and difficulty in communication among those with cognitive impairments.

The other options do not accurately reflect the essence of sundowning. For instance, improvement in cognitive function during the evening contradicts the experiences of individuals who are experiencing this phenomenon. Increased alertness during late hours would also misrepresent the typical decline in cognitive abilities seen in sundowning. Lastly, while a decline in physical movement at night may happen, it does not encapsulate the core issue related to cognitive skills deterioration, which is central to the understanding of sundowning.