Daylight Savings & Sundowning: Tips for Winter
All human beings have an internal process known as the circadian rhythm. This mechanism regulates the sleep-wake cycle by processing light as the day passes to night, acting as an “internal clock” for the body. For those with Alzheimer's that experience Sundowner’s Syndrome, this mechanism can potentially create stress or confusion as light patterns change, especially during daylight savings time.
Those with Sundowner’s Syndrome already tend to have changes in mood, personality, or behavior during the evening (though the syndrome can technically take effect at any time of day) and as a result, daylight savings can intensify the experience for some. This is all the more important when considering the risk of depression amongst those with Alzheimer’s. Seasonal Affective Disorder— a type of depressive episode often associated with the colder dark months— could also influence preexisting conditions for those experiencing Sundowner’s Syndrome during the wintertime.
Clearly, nobody can control the weather or time, but there are many ways in which caregivers and those with Alzheimer’s can ensure they stay healthy and energized this time of year. Though there is never one solution that works for everyone, many have reported the following help lessen the impact of daylight savings:
Ensure your loved one isn’t dealing with any extra underlying conditions or stressors in their environment that could negatively influence their mood
Try to create a warm, comfortable atmosphere that provides light into the later hours of the day (nightlights, interesting lamps, or even a virtual fire on TV!)
Try to keep a normal routine going. No unusual naps, and keep bed and mealtimes consistent
Try to keep the noise to a minimum, but gentle calming music can be helpful if your loved one enjoys it
Make sure your loved one stays on a healthy diet, not consuming too much sugar or foods that could influence energy level
Don’t try to over-explain to your loved one what is going on, just try to create the best atmosphere as possible where they can feel safe
The most important thing to emphasize is consistency. In order to prepare and manage the shifts associated with daylight savings and the wintertime, stick to the same routine as much as possible and show your loved one comfort as best you know how!
Sources & More Reading:
Daylight savings can trigger sundown syndrome: What you can do. Anthem Memory Care. (2020, February 26). Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://www.anthemmemorycare.com/blog/daylight-savings-can-trigger-sundown-syndrome-what-you-can-do.
Phelps, R. (2021, October 29). Daylight saving time can trigger sundowning behaviors. AgingCare.com. Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://www.agingcare.com/articles/daylight-saving-time-can-trigger-sundowning-212605.htm.
