Caring for a senior with Alzheimer's can introduce a number of complex and difficult challenges. A common concern among family members and caregivers is how to handle the confusion that can occur when the time changes due to daylight savings time. Deciding how and when to correct a senior loved one may depend on the individual, keeping in mind the progression of their Alzheimer's disease.
Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease affects many seniors, resulting in confusion and difficulty with memory, speaking, and reasoning. Since it can have a significant impact on their cognitive functioning, seniors with Alzheimer's are often affected by time changes, particularly when daylight savings time occurs.
How Daylight Savings Time Affects People with Alzheimer's
Since people with Alzheimer's often have difficulty with memory, speaking, and reasoning, daylight savings time can be especially confusing and disorienting. This can be a difficult and emotional time for both the person with Alzheimer's and the family members or caregivers who are looking after them.
It is important to be aware of the changes that can occur due to the time change, as they can affect people with the condition in various ways. Some of these include confusion, difficulty sleeping, and difficulty following scheduled activities. Many seniors with Alzheimer's will struggle to adapt to the time change and may have trouble understanding the difference that the hour makes in their daily plans, medication requirements, or appointments.
The Benefits of Correcting Seniors with Alzheimer's About the Date and Time
Correcting seniors with Alzheimer's about the date and time, especially around daylight savings time, can have a number of benefits in terms of reducing confusion and helping with scheduling and activities. It can help them to stay on track with daily routines such as meal times, bathing or showering, or taking medications. This can also help them to stay oriented to the time of day and the current date and time. Many caregivers choose to correct their loved ones with Alzheimer's to help keep them on track.
The Cons of Correcting Seniors with Alzheimer's About the Date and Time
As Alzheimer's progresses, it can become more difficult to manage symptoms, and confusion and disorientation may increase. Correcting seniors with Alzheimer's about the date and time can also lead to increased frustration for some of them. That frustration can then lead to a greater risk of outbursts or angry behavior. As such, it is important to be aware of the potential consequences of correcting them and how to best manage them. In some cases, caregivers may choose not to correct the senior.
Get Help Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer's
At Senior Helpers Manalapan, we understand the sensitive nature of caring for seniors with Alzheimer's. Correcting them about the date and time, especially around daylight savings time, has both benefits and drawbacks that should be taken into account.
If you are a family member or caregiver of a senior with Alzheimer's and need help managing the changes that come with the time change, please contact us for in-home senior care services in the Monroe Township, Englishtown, Freehold, Manalapan, or Asbury Park areas of Monmouth and Middlesex Counties.