AS THE nights become longer, people across the borough are preparing to set reminders to wind their clocks back on October 30 to reflect the change in season.
Despite this routine occurring twice every year, many people are caught out by the extra hour lost or gained.
But for people with dementia in Warwickshire, where there are an estimated 8,900 people living with condition, the time change may cause more than just a surprise.
Alzheimer’s Society has advised that people with dementia can find themselves disorientated by the clocks moving back.
As winter mornings become darker, people with dementia may find it difficult to differentiate between 6am and 6pm disrupting their biological clock, making it hard for them to get enough sleep.
Janice Le Tellier, Alzheimer’s Society Warwickshire area manager said: “For the majority of people, the annual daylight-saving clock change is simply met with a light-hearted shrug and a set reminder to identify all the clocks you own to wind back an hour.
“While it can be a minor nuisance for the majority of people, for those living with dementia it can trigger anxiety, confusion and irritability.”
Some people with dementia might also experience something called ‘sundowning’ when the days get shorter.
Sundowning refers to a change in behavior in the later afternoon or towards the end of the day.
During this time, the person may become intensely distressed or confused.
Janice added: “Too many people face dementia alone. We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you’re going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for practical advice, emotional support, and guidance for the best next step.”
Call 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk if yourself or a loved one needs support.
