How to Prepare for the End of Daylight Saving Time on November 6

Both the ending and the beginning of daylight saving time can be a real pain at any stage of life. It's like an invitation to jet lag that lacks the benefits of stimulating travel. Without choice, people are suddenly thrust forward or backward in time, with their sleep schedules and circadian rhythms expected to instantly adjust. However, the end of daylight saving time can be especially challenging for seniors.

Many aging adults are heavily reliant upon the consistent and dependable nature of their daily schedules. These seemingly small interruptions can have a major impact on their medication management, behaviors, moods, and health. As the end of daylight saving grows near, here are a few things to make this transition easier.

Build a Nap Into Your Schedule to Prepare for Daylight Saving Time

"Fall back" or the end of daylight saving is often greeted with greater anticipation than "spring forward". Most people assume that the extra hour they're gaining during "fall back" automatically means an extra hour of sleep. In reality, people tend to sleep less during this time of the year, especially those who are recognized as being naturally "short sleepers". If you or your aging loved one wakes up periodically throughout the night, an extra hour of sleep won't make things any easier.

One way to offset your losses in sleep volume due to daylight saving time is by scheduling an afternoon nap. You can do this a week or more before the end of daylight saving arises. Then, you should continue your daily naps until both your body and your regular sleep schedule have adjusted.

If naps aren't your style, start preparing for the coming extra hour approximately one to two weeks ahead of "fall back". You can do this by moving your sleep schedule forward in 15-minute increments each night. After four nights, you'll be on track for the seasonal time adjustment. Thus, you can spend the remaining days before "fall back" letting your body adapt.

Don't Start Borrowing From Your Expected Sleep Gains

With the promise of an extra hour of sleep looming just ahead, many people use the Sunday before "fall back" to get more done or to stay up for additional recreation. Sticking to your normal sleep schedule is important. Not only is it risky to assume that you'll sleep longer and more deeply at daylight saving's end, but it's also likely to make getting up on time the following morning much harder.

Establish a Medication Tracking System or Set up Medication Reminders

It's always best to have a solid and reliable way to track your medication. If you take your pills at specific times of the day or after specific activities, changes in daytime lighting, your energy levels, and your focus could cause you to forget doses or forget doses that you've taken. You can use a pill organizer, keep a written record of your doses, or have a friend or family member help you stay on target. You can also use your phone to set alarms or other scheduled reminders.

Change Your Window Treatments

The end of daylight saving may mean having early-morning sunlight fall across your bed long before your normal rising hour. While you're still adjusting to the time change, you might want to invest in heavier window treatments. Swap out lacy or transparent curtains for thicker, blackout drapes, or install blinds.

Adjust Your Errands to Reflect Changes in Natural Lighting After Daylight Saving Time

Just as there's more light in the morning after the end of daylight saving time, there's also less light in the evening. In mid-November, early twilight will set in just before 5 pm. If you have afternoon errands that you like to run in Edmond, Norman, or Oklahoma City, consider scheduling them earlier. If you know that you'll be coming home after the sun has already set, increase your outdoor lighting. Making sure that your outdoor space is well-lit during times of early sunsets minimizes the risk of accidents.

Get Help From Senior Helpers of Oklahoma City

Personal care and companion care services from Senior Helpers of Oklahoma City make it easier for aging adults to adjust to the end of daylight saving. We can assist with transportation services, medication reminders, diet monitoring, and more. Whether time change affects your sleep, appetite, memory, or moods, we've got you covered. Contact us today!