As the winter season draws to a close we prepare to set our clocks forward an hour on March 31st, marking the transition to British Summer Time.
While this biannual adjustment is routine for many, it can present challenges for individuals with dementia, disrupting their sense of time and routine.
According to the Alzheimer’s Society, the leading charity in the UK dedicated to supporting those affected by dementia, the clock change can be particularly disorientating for the 92,514 people living with dementia in the South West region alone. As daylight stretches further into the evening, individuals with dementia may struggle to distinguish between morning and evening, impacting their sleep patterns and overall wellbeing.
Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer for Wellbeing at Alzheimer’s Society, spoke on the significance of this issue, stating, “While it is often only a minor nuisance for the majority of people, for people living with dementia it can disrupt their body clock and cause confusion and anxiety.”
To assist individuals and their caregivers in managing this transition, Alzheimer’s Society has provided four practical tips:
- Adjust Bedtime: Consider moving evening activities, such as meals and bedtime, an hour earlier on Saturday to maintain consistency in the person’s routine.
- Use Visual Aids: Utilise tools like ‘Day and Night’ clocks, featuring simple visual cues, to help individuals with dementia differentiate between day and night.
- Encourage Exercise: Engage in gentle outdoor activities during the day to promote sleepiness in the evening, or maintain activity levels indoors if going outside is not feasible. Additionally, consider using blackout curtains to minimise exposure to sunlight in the evenings.
- Establish Routine: Maintain a consistent daily schedule, incorporating regular activities at set times to provide structure and stability.
Alzheimer’s Society offers support through its online shop, providing devices to assist with daily routines and reminders for completing tasks. Angelo reaffirmed the charity’s commitment to those affected by dementia, urging individuals to seek practical advice, emotional support, and guidance from Alzheimer’s Society.
With an estimated 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK, a number projected to increase to 1.6 million by 2040, the need for ongoing support and understanding is paramount.
For those seeking assistance or information, Alzheimer’s Society offers resources online at alzheimers.org.uk or through their Dementia Support Line at 0333 150 3456.
