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Remembering when to set our clocks an hour ahead or an hour behind is difficult enough for the average person. Making such changes in the lives of seniors, especially those who already face the challenges of memory disorders, can have adverse effects.
When a senior relies on routine to get through the day, disrupting that routine in any way might create undue stress to their system. Therefore, knowing what to expect when Daylight Savings Time (DST) comes around is the best way to mitigate any issues arising from the time change.
First and foremost, how does Daylight Savings Time affect seniors? From disruption of sleep to physical health issues, it’s important to be aware of the risks to help keep seniors happy and healthy through the adjustment period as we enter into spring.
When Daylight Savings Time was introduced, it allowed workers more hours of daylight in the evenings. It meant that individuals would lose an hour of sleep in the spring while they would gain one in the fall. Some argue that DST causes more challenges than solutions in modern society, but nothing has changed in how the US observes it.
In more recent years, studies have shown that people find that time changes disrupt their sleep patterns, affect their ability to follow daily routines, and cause underlying health issues. While these challenges present themselves to most individuals, they are especially difficult for seniors.
Changing the time to adhere to DST can create challenges with maintaining our usual sleeping patterns. Studies have shown that people lose as much as 40 minutes to an hour of sleep in the initial days after a time adjustment.
These disruptions can lead to other issues due to stress on our cognitive function. This becomes even more of a challenge for seniors who have dementia or other memory-related conditions.
Not being able to keep a typical sleep routine can lead to a decrease in memory strength. It creates a disconnect in our brains. When we are tired, we have a harder time getting thoughts to flow together coherently, which leads to confusion and frustration.
Exhaustion can also lead seniors to make medication mistakes and get physically hurt more often due to balance issues. While cognition is the go-to side-effect of sleep deprivation, it isn’t the only way that seniors’ lives can be negatively affected by DST.
As a result of sleep disruptions, our daily routines can also suffer. If we sleep later or don’t sleep well, we will be less motivated to stick to what we know.
This can be extra challenging for seniors with memory diagnoses because routine is what keeps them regulated and mentally stable. Not having the comfort and predictability of routine can lead to undo stress and depression.
Part of coping with dementia or Alzheimer’s is ensuring that significant changes don’t come along to upset the senior’s day activities. Changing the time can make it difficult for some to regulate their emotions as they adjust to the new routine.
While DST only occurs two times a year, that can still be highly disruptive and stressful for someone with such conditions. Many people with dementia or Alzheimer’s suffer from a condition called sundowning, where their cognition is diminished by the setting of the sun. Adjusting the time in the spring also affects those individuals’ sundowning condition, making it start sooner.
The stress of creating a new routine centered on the recent time changes can do more than simply mess up our brain chemistry and cognition. It can also lead to more serious health conditions.
Confusion and exhaustion can lead to more stress on our bodies as they try to adjust. This means that it is more likely to suffer from such conditions as heart attacks, anxiety, high blood pressure, and gastrointestinal issues.
Knowing what stress can do to your body is essential to keep in mind as you look toward future DST periods.
Knowing how Daylight Savings Time (DST) can affect your loved ones is only half of what you need to make this period of transition a more positive one. Knowing how to help them cope with the effects of a time adjustment will allow them to diminish their stress levels.
We can assist our loved ones with their transition period during DST in many ways.
Knowing that Daylight Savings Time comes around two times a year means we can look ahead and create a sleep schedule that can easily be adjusted. This will diminish the strain on sleeping patterns caused by the time adjustment.
There are going to be some instances of sleep deprivation and insomnia, no matter what we try to do to help. However, having a schedule in place helps lessen the adjustment period for our loved ones.
It is also important to keep your loved one away from caffeine or other sleep disruptors when DST comes along. Our brains naturally have trouble adjusting to the change, and adding substances into the mix will increase the transition period, especially for seniors.
Just like with the sleep schedule, having a routine that fits your senior loved one’s life outside of time constraints will help lessen the burden caused by DST. Routine will always be a source of regulation and comfort for seniors with memory conditions.
That concept works just as well for seniors without such conditions as well. In all honesty, an adjustable and flexible daily routine can be helpful for anyone who struggles with change.
Knowing what to expect helps relieve the burden of the unknown as our brains adjust to a new time.
For seniors who have dementia or Alzheimer’s and experience sundowning, making use of valuable time in the sun can help them adjust. Being active and alert during daylight hours is essential for seniors with memory conditions because it is when they are most likely to be themselves.
Family members being aware of this and knowing that DST adjustment periods limit their loved one’s cognitive abilities will go a long way toward helping them cope with the change. Being in the sun will give their senior’s natural rhythms time to work their magic and help their loved ones feel more aware.
The health benefits of exercise have long been documented. Exercise is the perfect solution to keep your systems regulated and healthy.
So, when something such as time change – which disrupts so much of our internal rhythms – comes along, the simplest way to keep your body in tempo is through exercise. For our senior loved ones, this will significantly benefit their mental health and cognitive ability as they adjust to new sleep patterns and possible insomnia.
Timing our exercises correctly for the correct times of day can allow our bodies to adjust to the new sleep patterns more quickly. Exercising, such as cardio in the evening, will enable us to work up a sweat and become exhausted if we have difficulties falling asleep. If we are struggling with cognition in the mornings, doing some yoga and mild stretching can give our brains an adjustment period to wake up more and function better for our other daily activities.
Ultimately, stress is a big concern for the transition period just before and immediately after Daylight Savings Time. Knowing the best techniques to help our senior loved ones relax will go a long way toward ensuring they have a stress-free DST.
Activities such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and hobbies are easy ways to help our loved ones adjust. These techniques will allow them to focus on what they can control and not worry about what they can’t, such as the time change.
Doing things they love will also release endorphins in their brain that keep their mental health positive, diminishing the chances of stress-related conditions occurring.
Ultimately, it all comes down to what works best for our loved ones and how we can best adjust their lives to eliminate the adverse side effects of Daylight Savings Time.
Another way to help your senior with life adjustments brought on by Daylight Savings Time is through professional help. Whether this means seeking a doctor for advice or looking into home care for your loved one, we can’t always meet these challenges alone.
Accessible is here to assist you with any questions or concerns. Our caregivers are available to help your family in whatever capacity works best for your loved one. Contact us today for more information
By Phara Lafortune-Morame, LCSW, MCAP, EMDR cert., QS.There are many reasons that significant moments are often celebrated with a drink. But during the holidays, otherwise-celebratory toasts can be triggers for people who struggle with substance use disorder, including seniors.Some families and cultures have holiday traditions that lean heavily on alcohol consumption. Family recipes for festive cocktails and toasts before dinners reinforce the idea that consumption is part of connecting with loved ones and embracing the holiday spirit.The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States notes that a quarter of the $49-billion-a-year distilled spirits industrys profits come from the month between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Another study notes that the average American drinks 27% more during the holiday season compared to the rest of the year.As a result, the stress and anxiety associated with the holiday season can result in increased consumption or return to drug and alcohol use for those currently in recovery, particularly for older residents, who tend to suffer from depression more during the holidays. Many studies note that nearly half of individuals recovering will return to use during the holiday season.The prevalence of substances in celebrations often mixes badly with the elevated depression and stress the holidays can bring. Expectations for creating and experiencing holiday joy are at the center of potential substance use triggers. When mixed with emotional turmoil, financial stress, loneliness, grief, nostalgia, and dysfunctional and complex family relationships, this can create a desire to seek temporary escape from overwhelming feelings through substances. For those aged 65 and older, alcohol misuse is the most frequently reported substance of use.The use of alcohol in older adults negatively impacts brain structure and function and can lead to declines in cognitive function and memory, particularly for adults over the age of 65. In addition, the bodys ability to break down alcohol decreases with age, resulting in increased risk for accidents and falls, fractures and car accidents. For anyone in recovery from substance use disorder, or concerned about increased consumption through the holidays, it is important to plan.Here are strategies for staying sober: Be aware of people, places or situations that can trigger consumption, and do what you can to minimize these exposures. Keep (and bring, if necessary) a nonalcoholic drink in your hand to resist temptation and discourage others from offering an alcoholic drink. Set realistic expectations. Stress is common for nearly everyone during the holidays, and spontaneous, imperfect moments are often the most memorable and special moments. Take care of yourself. Proper nutrition, exercise and meditation do wonders for your well-being. If you feel well physically, you will be stronger emotionally. Set boundaries, and let people know where you need support in resisting temptations. Have a plan on how to navigate, and more importantly exit social gatherings (For example, do not be dependent on someone else for transportation, so you can leave if needed). Be aware that returning to use a substance after a period of abstinence can happen AFTER the holidays, where we can justify returning to use by feeling entitled to drink or use drugs for having made it through the holidays. Sometimes, we manage better during a crisis than afterward.. Seek professional help and support.Sometimes, substance misuse is difficult to recognize in older adults, and few treatment programs are designed to meet their needs. However, the Primary Care Addiction Treatment (PCAT) program for adults at Healthcare Network follows a supportive, compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to encourage healing and lessen negative effects. The program treats every patient with respect and dignity, using empathetic language to reduce stigma and foster a supportive environment.Healthcare Network also offers medication for addiction treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and other substances within a primary care setting. Comprehensive care includes medication treatment along with behavioral therapy and counseling services to provide a whole-care approach to treating substance use disorders and support recovery.In addition, our primary care programs for the whole family include integrated mental and behavioral health care to address some of the mental health challenges that are sometimes at the root of substance use disorders.Help is available through the holidays and beyond. Supportive treatment can be the gift of a lifetime for you and your loved ones. About the Author By Phara Lafortune-Morame is associate clinical director of behavioral health at Healthcare Network. To learn more about substance use and behavioral and mental health support available Healthcare Network, visit healthcareswfl.org or call 239.658.3000.
Downsizing can be an emotional and overwhelming process, especially when it involves parting with a lifetime of memories and cherished belongings. At Bluestar Move Management, we specialize in making this transition as smooth and positive as possible. Whether youre moving to a smaller home, a senior living community, or simply looking to declutter, our comprehensive downsizing services are designed to support you every step of the way.Why Choose Bluestar for Downsizing?We understand that each move is deeply personal. Our approach combines professionalism, compassion, and respect to ensure your downsizing experience is stress-free. Our team handles every detail, from sorting and organizing to packing and setting up your new home, so you can focus on embracing the next chapter of your life.Our Downsizing Process1. Free ConsultationWe begin with a complimentary one-hour onsite consultation to understand your goals, timeline, and specific needs. This helps us create a tailored plan for your transition.2. Sorting & OrganizingOur team works closely with you to sort through your belongings, helping you decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. We treat every item with care, respecting the memories and meaning attached to your possessions.3. Packing with CareWe handle the packing process with precision, ensuring that your items are safely and securely prepared for the move. From fragile keepsakes to everyday essentials, everything is packed with the utmost attention to detail.4. Estate LiquidationIf you have items you no longer need, we can assist with estate sales or donation coordination, helping you simplify your move while maximizing the value of your belongings.5. Moving Day ManagementOn moving day, we oversee all aspects of the process, coordinating with movers and ensuring everything goes according to plan.6. Unpacking & Home SetupOnce you arrive at your new home, we take care of unpacking and arranging your space to make it feel like home. From furniture placement to hanging artwork, we ensure your new environment is comfortable, functional, and welcoming.The Benefits of Downsizing with BluestarReduced Stress: We handle the logistics so you can focus on the emotional and practical aspects of your move.Customized Support: Every downsizing journey is unique, and we adapt our services to meet your specific needs.Professional Expertise: With years of experience, our team knows how to manage every detail of the process efficiently.Emotional Understanding: We recognize the emotional challenges of downsizing and provide compassionate support throughout the process.Additional ServicesDecluttering & Organizing: Create a streamlined, clutter-free living space with our expert organizing services.Donation & Disposal Coordination: We ensure that unwanted items are donated or disposed of responsibly.Home Sale Preparation: Enhance the appeal of your current home with our preparation services, including staging and organizing.Start Your Downsizing Journey TodayDownsizing is more than just a moveits a transition to a new chapter of life. With Bluestar Move Management by your side, you can trust that every step will be handled with care, respect, and professionalism.Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and discover how we can make your downsizing experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At Bluestar, we understand that moving is more than just transporting belongingsits about starting fresh in a new space. With our comprehensive moving help services, we aim to make your transition seamless and stress-free. Whether youre relocating to a smaller home, a senior living community, or simply need assistance with the complexities of moving, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.Our Moving Help Process1. Free ConsultationYour journey begins with a complimentary one-hour onsite consultation. Well discuss your goals, items for sale, and the timeline for your move, ensuring we understand your unique needs.2. Customized PlanningBased on your consultation, we create a tailored action plan to address every detail of your move. From packing and organizing to setting up your new home, our plan ensures a smooth and efficient process.3. Sorting & Floor PlanningOur team works with you to sort through your belongings, deciding what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. We also create a detailed floor plan for your new space, ensuring everything fits perfectly and is arranged for optimal comfort and functionality.4. Packing & UnpackingWe take care of the packing process with precision, ensuring your items are safely prepared for transport. Upon arrival at your new home, we oversee the unpacking and setup, arranging your furniture, artwork, and personal belongings to make your space feel like home.5. Home Sale PreparationIf youre selling your current home, we help enhance its appeal by organizing belongings, staging key areas, and coordinating with contractors to make necessary improvements. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible sale.6. Making Your New Space Feel Like HomeOnce youre in your new space, we handle all the final touchesfrom arranging furniture to hanging art and setting up electronics. We also remove all packing materials, leaving your new home clean, organized, and ready to enjoy.Why Choose Bluestar?Expertise You Can Trust: With years of experience, we know how to handle every aspect of your move efficiently and with care.Tailored to You: We understand that no two moves are the same, so we adapt our services to fit your specific needs.Stress-Free Moving: Let us handle the details while you focus on settling into your new space.Comprehensive Services: From sorting and packing to estate sales and home setup, were your one-stop solution for all things moving-related.Additional ServicesEstate Liquidation: Need to downsize or sell items? We manage estate sales to help you simplify your move.Donation Coordination: Let us handle donating items you no longer need, giving back to the community on your behalf.Decluttering & Organizing: We create order out of chaos, ensuring your new home is functional and inviting.Ready to Make Your Move?Bluestars moving help services are designed to take the stress out of your relocation process. From the first consultation to the final unpacking, were here to support you every step of the way.Contact Us TodayTake the first step toward a smooth and stress-free move. Schedule your free consultation with Bluestar, and let us handle the details so you can enjoy the next chapter in your life.