Dear Donna:
My mom has Alzheimer’s and has been living with my family for the past few years. While her disease is still considered to be mid-stage, one concern we have trouble managing is when the time changes here in Michigan. It seems to really disrupt her sense of well-being and ramps up her agitation.
In anticipation of the spring time change, I’m wondering if you have any tips for helping us better support her. We would appreciate any suggestions.
Sincerely,
Lisa in Saugatuck, MI
Tips to Help a Senior with Alzheimer’s Navigate Seasonal Time Changes
Dear Lisa:
This is a great observation! As one of the largest providers of Alzheimer’s care in Michigan, it’s a change in behavior we see often, too.
For most people, the shifts caused by Daylight Saving Time—either gaining or losing an hour—pass with only minor inconvenience. But for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, even a small disruption in daily rhythm can cause confusion, agitation, or a temporary worsening of symptoms. Understanding why this happens and knowing how to prepare can make this seasonal transition much smoother.
Why Time Changes Can Be Hard for People with Alzheimer’s
Because memory is impacted by this disease, people living with Alzheimer’s often rely heavily on routine. Predictable schedules offer structure and emotional security, helping them feel anchored throughout the day.
A sudden change in light patterns, such as darker mornings in fall or brighter evenings in spring, can confuse the body’s natural clock. This internal clock, known as circadian rhythm, regulates sleep, hunger cues, energy levels, and even mood.
Because Alzheimer’s disease affects the parts of the brain that manage time perception and sleep-wake cycles, these changes can be especially disruptive. It’s common to see:
- Increased confusion, particularly in the late afternoon or early evening
- Sleep disturbances, such as waking up earlier or having trouble falling asleep
- Worsening of “sundowning” symptoms, including agitation, pacing, or restlessness
- Irritability or anxiety as the person struggles to understand why the environment feels “off”
Even though the clock changes by only one hour, the shift in daylight can feel much more dramatic for someone already coping with cognitive changes.
How Caregivers Can Prepare and Reduce Stress
The good news is that with a few thoughtful adjustments, you can help ease the transition for a loved one with Alzheimer’s and minimize the impact.
- Adjust routines gradually.
In the week leading up to a time change, try shifting daily activities by 10–15 minutes each day. Adjust wake-up times, meals, medication schedules (if appropriate), and bedtime slowly rather than all at once. This gentle transition helps the body adapt more naturally.
- Use light to your advantage.
Light is one of the strongest tools for regulating circadian rhythm. A well-lit environment can reduce restlessness and support clearer thinking.
- In the fall, when evenings become darker earlier, add indoor lighting in the late afternoon to reduce confusion.
- In the spring, when mornings become brighter, open blinds early to help the body wake up naturally.
- Maintain familiar rhythms.
Even when the clock changes, the overall pattern of the day should remain as steady as possible. Keep meals, walks, bathing, and relaxing activities in the same order and general timeframe. Consistency builds comfort.
- Reduce stimulation during the transition.
If your loved one experiences sundowning, keep evenings calm. Lower noise levels, limit screen use, and choose soothing activities such as listening to music, folding towels, or looking at photo albums.
Predictability helps reduce anxiety.
- Monitor sleep and adjust gently.
A slight change in sleep patterns after a time shift is normal. If your loved one wakes too early or struggles to settle at night, encourage restful habits. Those can include soft lighting, warm beverages without caffeine, and a quiet pre-bed routine. Avoid forcing sleep, which may increase agitation.
- Be patient and reassuring.
A calm, steady presence is one of the most valuable tools you have. Offer reassurance, speak gently, and expect that your loved one may need extra support for a few days.
One final tool you might find helpful is this article, “How to Manage Sleep Problems in Adults With Alzheimer’s.” It has ideas you might find useful.
Kind regards,
Donna