Daylight savings time can be a confusing and disorienting transition for many of us. For seniors with dementia, the transition can be even more challenging and disruptive. At Senior Helpers Spokane, an in-home senior care company, we understand how difficult this change can be and provide tips on how to manage the transition. Read on to learn more.
How Daylight Savings Time Can Affect Seniors with Dementia
The disruption of daylight savings time can cause confusion and disorientation for seniors with dementia. When the clock changes, seniors with dementia may have trouble understanding why their normal routines are different and may become frustrated and agitated. They may also feel less safe and secure when the daylight hours change and can struggle to understand why they are feeling disoriented.
How You Can Help Seniors with Dementia Adjust to the Changes
Establish a Routine
Establishing a routine is key for seniors with dementia. Well before the clocks change, begin to prepare your senior loved one by helping them to adjust their schedules. Adjust meal times and bedtimes a week before the daylight savings time changes. Additionally, keep track of their regular activities and help to make any needed changes to their schedules. Keep in touch with them about their thoughts and needs and be sure to be compassionate in your conversations. A little bit of understanding goes a long way with seniors!
Use Visual Cues
Using visual cues can be helpful for seniors with dementia to help them understand the change in time. For example, display clocks in large numbers that are easy to read, place signs around the house, or hang up a calendar to mark the passing of days.
Provide Extra Support
It is important to provide extra support for seniors with dementia during the daylight savings time change. Spend extra time with them to help them understand the change of time, provide reassurance, and answer any questions they may have. If necessary, consult a doctor or geriatric specialist to help in the transition.
Doctors will be able to help your senior loved one understand the science behind the time change and evaluate them for any health concerns that they might have. If your senior loved one is still unable to find a good way to rest, their doctor might be able to prescribe them some medication to address the issue.
Senior Helpers Can Provide Support for Time Changes
At Senior Helpers Spokane, we understand the challenges that come with daylight savings time for seniors with dementia. If you or your loved one are struggling to adjust, reach out today to learn more about how our in-home senior care team can help. We are here to provide the support and reassurance you need in times of change.
Contact us today to learn how we help senior adults in the Spokane, Coeur D'Alene, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Rathdrum, Hayden, and Moscow areas adjust to time changes. We understand that every senior adult has different needs, and we pride ourselves on providing personalized care to each and every adult in our service area.