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On Sunday, November 1, 2026, daylight saving time ends, and clocks turn back one hour at 2 a.m. While the chance for an extra hour of sleep may sound appealing, the earlier sunsets and shift in routine can take some getting used to.

For some older adults, changes to sleep and daily schedules can make the transition of daylight savings more challenging. A little planning, a familiar routine, and some extra patience can help your loved one adjust.

Start With Small Changes

In the days leading up to the time change, consider gradually shifting bedtime, wake-up time, and meals about 15 minutes each day, working toward a total adjustment of one hour. Small changes can help ease the transition without making the day feel too different.

Once the clocks change, aim for consistent times for waking, eating, activities, and going to bed. These familiar patterns can help your loved one settle into the new schedule.

Make Restful Sleep a Priority

The time change is a good opportunity to revisit nighttime habits. Is the bedroom quiet, comfortable, and dark enough for sleep? Does your loved one have a relaxing routine that helps them wind down?

Try to avoid adding long or late-afternoon naps, especially if napping is not usually part of their day. Be mindful of afternoon caffeine and evening alcohol, which can interfere with restful sleep.

During the day, encourage enjoyable activities and time in natural daylight when possible. A walk, a visit with family, or a favorite activity can help maintain a familiar rhythm and support nighttime rest.

Use the Time Change as a Safety Reminder

Earlier sunsets also make this a helpful time to take a fresh look around your loved one’s home.

• Check lighting. Make sure hallways, stairs, entrances, and frequently used rooms are well lit. Night-lights can help illuminate the path between the bedroom and bathroom.
• Clear walking paths. Remove clutter and address loose rugs or cords that may be harder to see in dim light.
• Test safety equipment. Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, following the manufacturer’s instructions for testing, battery replacement, and expiration dates.
• Review the medicine cabinet. Look for expired or unused medications and ask a pharmacist about safe disposal options.

These small checks can help your loved one feel more comfortable and confident as evenings grow darker.

Offer Extra Support for Someone Living With Dementia

For someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, the time change may be especially confusing. Earlier darkness and changes in routine can contribute to sundowning, a pattern of increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation in the late afternoon or evening.

Your loved one may not understand why it is getting dark earlier or remember an explanation about the clocks changing. Focus on helping them feel safe and supported.

• Keep routines familiar. Maintain a predictable order for meals, activities, and bedtime, making any schedule adjustments gradually.
• Turn on lights before dusk. Keeping familiar spaces comfortably lit can help reduce shadows as daylight fades.
• Create calmer evenings. Reduce background noise and plan quieter activities toward the end of the day.
• Offer reassurance. A calm voice, familiar surroundings, and a comforting activity may be more helpful than repeatedly explaining the time change.
• Pay attention to patterns. Notice when your loved one seems more unsettled and what helps them feel at ease.

Give the Adjustment Time

Although earlier sunsets can take some getting used to, brighter mornings offer something to look forward to, whether that means enjoying breakfast by a sunny window or heading out for a morning walk.

Your loved one may need a little time to settle into the change. With small adjustments, consistent routines, and extra reassurance, you can help make the transition feel more comfortable.

For more resources on daylight savings for the senior in your life, check out our other blogs:

5 Tips for Daylight Savings and Alzheimer’s Disease
A Guide for Seniors-Navigating Daylight Savings

Sources:
AgingCare.com