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Daylight Savings Time is a biannual event that affects millions of people worldwide. While some look forward to longer evenings and brighter mornings, for seniors, this time change can bring about a host of challenges. From disruptions in sleep patterns to potential risks in daily activities, understanding the effects of Daylight Savings Time on seniors is crucial for their well-being.

We spring forward on March 10, 2024 – so what can you do to make sure the senior in your life is prepared for Daylight Savings Time? We’ve provided a guide featuring things to be aware of and helpful tips for navigating the time change.

Sleep Disruptions:

One of the most noticeable impacts of Daylight Savings Time on seniors is disruptions in their sleep patterns. Seniors often have more sensitive internal clocks, making it harder for them to adjust to the sudden shift in time. This disruption can lead to various issues, including:

• Medication Mix-Up: Seniors who rely on medication schedules may find themselves confused about when to take their medications due to the time change. This confusion can result in missed doses or unintentional overdoses, posing serious health risks. Be sure medications are clearly marked and laid out to prevent any medication mishaps.
• Trouble Driving: Sleep disturbances can impair cognitive function and reaction time, making driving more dangerous for seniors. The risk of accidents increases during the days following the time change as seniors struggle to adapt to their new sleep schedule. If mom or dad are driving, be sure to check in on them and double check if they’d like a ride.Residents at Northbridge communities have access to transportation with our community vehicles. Scheduled into the week are trips to restaurants, museums and drives around town as well as to the grocery store. Although our residents also enjoy 3 Eat Fresh, Eat Local meals in our community dining rooms!

• Fall Risk: Sleep deprivation can also increase the risk of falls among seniors, who are already more prone to accidents due to age-related factors. The combination of reduced sleep and potential medication mix-ups can further elevate this risk, highlighting the importance of taking precautions during this period.Precautions include: making sure there is adequate lighting in all rooms to prevent tripping and removing items that could be potential tripping hazards like area rugs. It is important to make sure all areas of your mom or dads home have been modified to include additional safety features – grab bars in bathrooms, rails on stairs, etc.
• Bedroom for Sleeping Only: Creating a sleep-conducive environment is essential for seniors during Daylight Savings Time. Designating the bedroom for sleeping only, free from distractions such as TVs or electronic devices, can help improve sleep quality and aid in adjusting to the new schedule.
• Exercise: regular exercise is a great way to encourage good sleeping habits. It is especially important in the days following the time change to limit sleep disturbances.

Disruption in Routine:

Seniors often thrive on routine, and any disruption, such as the shift in time during Daylight Savings, can be challenging to navigate. Changes in routine can lead to feelings of disorientation and anxiety among seniors, affecting their overall well-being. Establishing a consistent daily schedule and maintaining familiar routines can help alleviate some of these effects. It’s important to remember that some seniors, especially those living with dementia will have a hard time understanding why their routine feels different because their circadian rhythm has been adjusted but they might not remember or realize it is Daylight Savings.

Mealtime Considerations:

Daylight Savings can also impact seniors’ mealtime habits, particularly in terms of dietary choices. Certain foods and beverages, such as caffeine and heavy meals, can interfere with sleep quality and exacerbate sleep disturbances. Seniors should be mindful of their food and drink intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, to promote better sleep hygiene during this period. This is especially important when it comes to caffeine – be sure to adjust the caffeine cutoff time with the time change to ensure a good night sleep.

Sundowning in Dementia:

Seniors with dementia may experience increased confusion and agitation during the transition to Daylight Savings Time, a phenomenon known as sundowning. The shift in daylight hours can disrupt their internal body clocks, leading to behavioral changes such as restlessness, wandering, and mood swings. Caregivers should be extra vigilant during this time, providing reassurance and maintaining a calming environment to help manage sundowning symptoms. Remember, the senior living with dementia might not be aware of Daylight Savings Time and only feel that their circadian rhythm is off and is frustrated and confused about why. It is important to be understanding of this, especially in the first few days after the time change.

Daylight Savings Time can have a significant impact on seniors, affecting various aspects of their daily lives from sleep patterns to routine activities. By understanding these effects and implementing strategies to mitigate them, we can better help seniors navigate the transition and maintain their overall well-being. Caregivers and healthcare professionals play a vital role in supporting seniors during this time, providing guidance and assistance as needed to ensure a smooth adjustment to the time change. As we head into the days leading up to the time change, have a plan in place. Dedicate time to exercise, stick with a routine, be mindful of caffine intake and above all have patience and understanding if the senior in your life is struggling to adjust to the time change.

For more tips on Daylight Savings Time and Alzheimer’s Disease, check out our blog: 5 Tips for Daylight Savings and Alzheimer’s Disease

Discover life at a Northbridge community 

If you’re considering senior living for yourself or a family member, we hope you’ll visit one of our communities. You’ll find a maintenance-free, activity-filled and engaging lifestyle to help support your wellness goals. 

You’ll also discover many benefits in a Northbridge Senior Living community, including our Signature Program S.T.A.R. Club (Sharp Thinking, Active Residents) – which offers our residents several activities to participate in with others, including: 

•       Daily exercise group
•       Walking club
•       Tai Chi & Yoga
•       Nutritional classes
•       Library and book club
•       Museum outings
•       Artists in residence program
•       Multi-generational music
•       Genealogy Generations 

We’re here to answer any of your questions and invite you to download our complimentary guide Just the Facts: Your Guide to Memory Care. Please contact us if we can provide further information or if you would like to schedule a personalized tour. 

Source:
AgingCare.com