Dementia symptoms could manifest as clocks change: What to be mindful of
As the clocks prepare to spring forward by an hour on March 30th, an expert has raised concerns about potential repercussions on individuals with dementia. The daylight saving time adjustment, while welcomed by many for longer evenings, can present challenges for those grappling with cognitive impairments. This alteration has the capacity to trigger disorientation, disrupt sleep cycles, and interfere with circadian rhythms, particularly affecting individuals with dementia. Lee Cartwright, a care specialist at Mobility Solutions Direct, has shared insights and guidance for carers and family members supporting individuals with dementia in navigating these changes effectively.
According to Cartwright, individuals with dementia may encounter the following symptoms as a result of the clock change:
1. Increased disorientation: The adjustment in time can disorient individuals with dementia, causing difficulty in discerning the time of day or their specific location, leading to heightened unease.
2. Sleep disruptions: The shift in time can impact sleep patterns, resulting in challenges falling asleep or increased daytime fatigue, contributing to confusion and irritability among those with dementia.
3. Struggles with routine maintenance: Individuals with dementia rely on routines for a sense of security, and even minor changes such as the clock change can unsettle them, potentially causing anxiety or low moods.
4. Sundowning: Some individuals with dementia experience increased confusion or agitation in the evening, a phenomenon known as ‘sundowning’. The alteration in clocks can exacerbate this condition by further disrupting their internal body clock, blurring the distinction between day and night.
Addressing the challenges posed by the upcoming clock change, Cartwright proposes several strategies for caregivers to support individuals with dementia effectively:
1. Prepare in advance: Adjust the routine gradually by moving meal times and bedtime schedules forward, allowing individuals to maintain their usual sleeping patterns despite the time change.
2. Establish a consistent routine: A structured daily schedule can help regulate the body clock for individuals with dementia, providing stability through regular activities and mealtimes.
3. Maximise daylight exposure: Encouraging outdoor activities or sitting near bright windows can aid in regulating sleep patterns as exposure to natural light influences the body’s internal clock.
4. Create a conducive sleep environment: Ensure the bedroom is conducive to quality sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and free from distractions, while incorporating calming bedtime rituals.
5. Monitor caffeine and sugar intake: Limiting stimulants like caffeine, sugar, nicotine, and alcohol closer to bedtime can aid in reducing restlessness and sleep disturbances, promoting better rest.
The guidance provided by Cartwright emphasises the importance of anticipating and mitigating potential challenges posed by the clock change for individuals with dementia. By adopting proactive measures and fostering a supportive environment, caregivers can enhance the wellbeing and comfort of those under their care during this transition period.
The impending clock change serves as a timely reminder of the nuances involved in providing care for individuals with cognitive impairments, highlighting the need for sensitivity, patience, and adaptability in addressing their unique needs. As society navigates the transition into daylight saving time, it is imperative to extend understanding and support to individuals with dementia, facilitating a smoother adjustment process and ensuring their comfort and wellbeing are prioritised amidst the temporal shift.