As British Summer Time begins, Alzheimer’s Society is encouraging people to check in on loved ones, friends and neighbours living with dementia ahead of the upcoming clock change.
With almost one million people living with dementia in the UK today, changes in routine can be unsettling. Seasonal shifts, including the clocks going forward on 29 March, may cause confusion and disruption – particularly when people lose an hour and daily patterns change.
Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer for Wellbeing at Alzheimer’s Society, said:
“For most people, the clocks changing doesn’t have much of an impact at all – although having to work out how to reset the clock on the oven and in the car is nobody’s idea of fun. While it is often only a minor nuisance for most people, for those living with dementia it can disrupt their body clock and cause confusion and anxiety.
“We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you’re going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for practical advice, emotional support, and guidance for the next step.”
Clock change advice – 29 March
As the days grow longer and brighter, people across the UK will be preparing to lose an hour. While this happens every year, it can still affect sleep and routines. For people with dementia, even small disruptions can have a significant impact on their wellbeing.
Here are four top tips from Alzheimer’s Society to help manage the transition:
1) Adjust bedtime the night before
Think about having your evening meal and going to bed an hour earlier on Saturday, so the person can still get their usual amount of sleep and wake at their normal time on Sunday. This way, the routine is only different for one evening rather than a full day.
2) Use visual aids to support orientation
Visual tools can help someone with dementia identify the start and end of the day. Alzheimer’s Society’s online shop offers ‘Day and Night’ clocks with clear visual symbols to help distinguish the time of day.
3) Stay active and use light to support sleep
Going outside and getting gentle exercise can help the person feel sleepier in the evening. If going outside isn’t possible, keeping active indoors can have a similar effect. Blackout curtains can also help reduce evening light and support sleep.
4) Keep a consistent daily routine
Regular activities at the same time each day – such as going for a walk after breakfast – can help regulate a disrupted body clock and make it easier to understand the time. Devices that provide reminders can also support daily routines.
Alzheimer’s Society also offers a range of products and support services to help people affected by dementia maintain independence and manage daily life.
Every action, whether it’s checking in on a neighbour, donating or supporting research, adds up. It will take a society to beat dementia. Please get involved by visiting alzheimersociety.org.uk/joinus or call the Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
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