Final answer:
Sundowning syndrome refers to the type of confusion that worsens after dark and is common in individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. It includes symptoms such as increased confusion and agitation in the evenings. Rosa's array of cognitive symptoms necessitates medical evaluation to rule out other causes and confirm a diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of confusion that increases or becomes apparent after dark and is often observed in older adults is called Sundowning syndrome. This phenomenon is particularly noticed in those with dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. As the symptoms exacerbate toward the evening, individuals may display increased confusion, agitation, and disorientation. For the older adult described by her daughter, the memory lapses, difficulty in managing daily tasks like budgeting, and mood changes are consistent with cognitive decline indicative of Alzheimer's or a related disorder. These symptoms, especially when they significantly impact daily functioning and are coupled with neurological changes seen on brain scans, suggest that the condition goes beyond the normal effects of aging.
Other symptoms of Alzheimer's disease include disruptive memory loss, confusion about time or place, difficulty planning or executing tasks, poor judgment, and personality changes. For Rosa, who exhibited such symptoms, it was pertinent to undergo a thorough examination by a healthcare provider to rule out other causes and to receive an accurate diagnosis.