An expert warned that the clocks changing can be disorientating and even distressing for people living with dementia
An expert has warned that potential symptoms of dementia could become apparent with the clocks changing this weekend. On March 30 the clocks will be put forward one hour, marking the start of daylight saving time.
While many of us welcome this change, which means lighter evenings, it can be difficult for those with cognitive issues. It can be disorientating and even disrupt their sleep and circadian rhythm.
With this in mind, care expert Lee Cartwright from Mobility Solutions Direct offered advice and guidance for those taking care of people with dementia before the clocks go forward. He explained: “With the clocks set to go back at the end of March, bringing longer days and shorter nights, people with dementia may struggle to distinguish between 6am and 6pm.
“Dementia impairs cognitive abilities like memory, making it challenging for those with the condition to comprehend time. As daylight savings begins and brighter days ensue, this can disrupt their internal body clock, making it harder for them to maintain a healthy sleeping pattern.
“Consequently, this can lead to heightened anxiety, low mood, impaired cognitive abilities and other health issues for those with dementia. Luckily, there are several ways carers, family members or friends can help people with dementia to cope with the clocks going forward.”
Dementia symptoms to spot
According to Lee, the following could be a sign that someone has dementia.
Increased disorientation – The clocks going forward can throw off a person’s sense of time, which is especially tough for those with dementia. They might struggle to recognise what time of day it is or even where they are, which can be really unsettling.
Sleep disruptions – Losing or gaining an hour can disrupt their sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep or causing excessive tiredness during the day. For someone with dementia, this can lead to confusion, restlessness, and make them more irritable.
Struggling to maintain a routine – People with dementia rely on routine to feel secure, so even small changes like the clocks going forward can make them feel unsettled. It can take time to adjust, and they may feel anxious or low in mood as a result.
Sundowning – Some people with dementia experience ‘sundowning’, where they become more confused or agitated in the evening. Changing the clocks disrupts their body’s internal clock, making it harder for them to distinguish between day and night. This can make sundowning symptoms worse.
Sundowning might manifest as:
- Restlessness, pacing, or wandering
- Feeling anxious, fearful, or panicked
- Increased irritability, anger, or aggression
- Confusion and disorientation
- Refusing to cooperate
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
- Sudden mood swings or emotional outbursts.
How to prepare for the clocks going back
If you are caring for a person with dementia there are steps you can take to help manage any symptoms linked to the clocks changing. Lee recommended the following.
Prepare for the clocks going back – On the Saturday before the clocks change try adjusting their routine slightly by preparing dinner and getting them ready for bed an hour earlier. This way, they’ll still get their usual amount of sleep and wake up at the right time on Sunday. Be patient, as the change can be disorientating, and offer reassurance if they seem confused.”
Establish a routine – A consistent daily schedule can help reset the body clock for those with dementia. Keeping regular meal times, activities, and bedtime will provide stability. For example, encouraging a gentle morning walk after breakfast each day can make it easier for them to understand the time of day.
Get plenty of daylight – Spending time outside can help regulate sleep patterns, as natural light supports the body’s internal clock. If going outside isn’t possible, sitting near a bright window or using a lightbox indoors can have a similar effect. As the weather warms up, ensure they’re dressed in lighter layers to stay comfortable.
Create a restful sleep environment – Make sure their bedroom is dark, quiet, and free from distractions to promote better sleep. As the weather gets sunny, consider using blackout curtains in their bedroom. Clean, fresh bedding and a calming bedtime routine – like reading or a warm bath – will help people with dementia to relax. Also, try to limit daytime naps so they don’t interfere with nighttime sleep.
Limit coffee or sugar intake – Caffeine, sugary sweets, nicotine, and alcohol can make restlessness and sleep problems worse, especially in the evening. Try to avoid these a few hours before bedtime to help them settle more easily.
