On Sunday, November 6, at 2 a.m., the clocks will fall back one hour, marking the end of daylight saving time. This means that there will be an extra hour during the day as the sun rises and sets earlier. While this may be easy for the clock or phone to update, the human body may face some challenges as some may gain an hour in their sleep schedule. Here is how you can prepare for the end of daylight saving time in Miami, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, FL:
Have a strict sleeping schedule
According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), setting the clock back, even an hour, affects the body's circadian rhythms. When this happens, some people might be tempted to stay up late because of the extra hour of daylight. However, sleep disruption can significantly affect energy levels, mood, concentration, and overall health. Have a strict sleep schedule that you will continue to follow to avoid this.
Avoid caffeine before bed
As stated above, the end of daylight saving time will mean an extra hour during the day and one less at night. Thus, you want to avoid anything that can disrupt your sleep by preventing the body from relaxing naturally. Research by the Sleep Foundation indicates that caffeine blocks adenosine, the sleep-promoting hormone, causing the human body to remain alert. Alcohol and snacks also disrupt sleep hormones which can impact the sleep schedule. Avoid them before bed.
Keep up your exercise schedule
People with preexisting sleep pattern problems or seasonal affective disorder may experience pronounced effects. The disorder is likely to kick in at the start of the winter season. If you are one of these people, it would be best that you take the necessary precautions. This includes getting a lightbox, scheduling more time outside, exercising, and taking the day off, if possible. Research indicates that exercises are beneficial as they help the body increase metabolism and release endorphins. This promotes well-being and improves energy levels.
Limit screen time
Like caffeine, phones and computers emit blue light, which affects circadian rhythm and melatonin. Therefore, the body is tricked into thinking it is still daytime, affecting the quality of your sleep. To avoid this, limit screen time or use apps that reduce the blue light, especially after the end of daylight saving time.
Change all clocks before the End of Daylight Saving Time
This one might seem obvious, but not all clocks update automatically. The computer and your smartphone might automatically update, but other clocks around the house, including the oven and the car, will not. Change them before November 6 to avoid confusion on Monday morning.
Contact Senior Helpers of Miami
The end of daylight saving time can significantly affect our morning and evening activities. This time change could worsen depression and signs of seasonal affective disorder. Seniors can reduce these effects by scheduling more time outside and increasing social interaction to prevent isolation.
Senior Helpers of North Miami can provide trained professional help to your elderly loved one, including bathing, meal preparation, light housework, and companionship. Contact us today for personalized care in Miami, Miami Beach, and North Miami Beach, FL, as well as surrounding areas.