Daylight Savings Time (DST) is an adjustment of a country's clock time. Due to the change in daylight each year, millions of people face the challenge of adapting to their suddenly darker morning routines. For seniors, in particular, this can be a difficult transition. Here are some Daylight Savings Time tips for seniors, courtesy of Senior Helpers Conroe.
Tips for Seniors to Adjust to the Change in Daylight
Adjusting to the change in daylight associated with DST can be a challenge for seniors. Since older individuals tend to wake up earlier and sleep for shorter periods, it helps to take steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some top tips:
- Be proactive about getting enough rest before DST begins. Make sure you create an atmosphere conducive to good quality sleep by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
- Open curtains or windows during the day. Letting natural sunlight into your home can make you feel more alert during darker mornings.
- Spend time outside. Exposure to natural light first thing in the morning helps cue the body that it's time to get going.
Get Enough Sleep
Making sure you get enough sleep is one of the best Daylight Savings Time tips for seniors. Getting plenty of rest during the days leading up to and after the DST change will help create more stable energy levels throughout the day. Avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and large meals before bedtime can also be beneficial when ensuring your body gets adequate amounts of restorative rest at night. Additionally, having a consistent bedtime schedule six nights out of seven helps set your biological clock by establishing regular sleep/wake routines.
Make Use of Natural Light
While it is still dark outside, slowly move your wake time to a later hour, giving yourself more exposure to the natural morning light. Even on cloudy days, sunlight will help cue the body that it's time to be up and moving. Also, turning off artificial lights such as lamps or televisions in your home before going to sleep helps ensure you don't become dependent on electronics for energy during the day.
Invest in Light Therapy
Light therapy is an increasingly popular form of treatment for seniors struggling with the transition to DST. Light-emitting devices and boxes that mimic natural sunlight are available – providing blue full-spectrum light throughout the morning. This helps increase alertness, reduce fatigue, and promote hormone balance.
Senior Helpers Offers Assistance With Time Changes
Adjusting to the changing clocks can be for seniors, especially those accustomed to getting up earlier and sleeping less. However, by following these Daylight Savings Time tips for seniors, you can ensure that you get through this transition with as few disruptions as possible. Finally, know that the time changes back to "normal" in November - so if you are struggling with Daylight Savings Time, know that this time change won't last.
Senior Helpers Conroe provides support and encouragement for seniors in the Bryan, Conroe, College Station, Livingston, Montgomery, and Huntsville areas. If you would like information about our comprehensive services, contact us today!