What to Do If Your Morning Routine Is Suddenly Darker: Daylight Savings Time Tips for Seniors
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What to Do If Your Morning Routine Is Suddenly Darker: Daylight Savings Time Tips for Seniors

When the time changes in spring, it can mean colder, darker mornings. For many seniors, that can mean a difficult adjustment as they struggle to get up and move. Sometimes, it can even make it very difficult to have enough energy to take care of needed tasks. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to improve your ability to adjust with our Daylight Savings Time tips. 

The Impact of Daylight Savings Time on Seniors

Daylight Savings Time can be difficult for seniors, as their bodies are unable to adjust to changes in light and darkness as easily. This means that when the mornings become darker, it can take longer for seniors to wake up and feel energized. Additionally, this transition can also cause an increased risk of falls among seniors due to a lack of visibility and disorientation. 

Tips for Adjusting to a Darker Morning Routine

Adjusting to a darker morning routine can be a challenge, but our Daylight Savings Time tips make it easier for seniors. 

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Carefully

Adjusting your sleep schedule gradually can, for some, help ease the transition--especially if you do not have to be up and moving first thing in the morning. Consider moving your wake time up gradually, rather than jumping into an hour shift all at once. 

Increase Exposure to Daylight

Your body will adjust to the time change more effectively when exposed to natural light. That natural sunlight helps in the transition and may help you feel less drowsy as you adjust to losing an hour of sleep. 

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help keep you moving and ensure you are tired around bedtime. Staying active can help make the adjustment more effective so you struggle less with that missing hour of sleep. Of course, always consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine. 

Maintain Your Routine

It can be tempting, after the time change, to take more naps or spend more time lounging around as you try to convince your body to make the switch. However, when possible, it can be helpful to maintain your routine as you make the adjustment. By staying on your usual routine, you may more quickly convince your body to make that transition. 

Do You Need More Help Adjusting to Daylight Savings Time?

Often, as seniors age, they find the transition around time changes rougher and harder to manage. Furthermore, they may have a hard time with daily self-care tasks, or note that they do not bounce back as fast as they used to. This is where Daylight Savings Time tips come in. If you're struggling with the transition and know that you may need more assistance at home, Senior Helpers Greenwood-Aiken, SC can help. We offer a variety of in-home care services to seniors in the Aiken, Greenwood, North Augusta, Chapin, Newberry, and Leesville areas, including help with daily self-care tasks, encouragement for exercise, and help running errands. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you address concerns related to the time change.