How the Clocks Changing Can Affect Behaviour

At Radfield Home Care Watford & Borehamwood, we know that as the seasons shift and the clocks change, many of us look forward to brighter mornings or longer evenings. However, for some people, particularly older adults or those living with dementia, this simple one-hour adjustment can have a surprising impact on mood, sleep, and behaviour.

Why the Clock Change Matters

Our bodies naturally follow a rhythm known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates when we feel awake or sleepy. When the clocks go forward or back, the sudden change in daylight can disrupt this rhythm, leading to fatigue, confusion, or irritability.

For people living with dementia, this disruption can be more pronounced. The shift in light patterns may make it harder to distinguish between day and night, which can lead to increased restlessness, agitation, or “sundowning” behaviours during the evening.

Behavioural Signs to Look For

It’s helpful to be aware of the changes that may occur when the clocks change. Some signs to look out for include:

• Difficulty falling asleep or waking earlier than usual.
• Increased confusion, particularly around times of day.
• Changes in appetite or daily routine.
• Low mood or reduced motivation due to shorter daylight hours.

How to Support Your Loved One at Home in Watford and Borehamwood

A few small adjustments can make the transition smoother and help maintain a sense of stability and comfort at home:

• Keep routines consistent – try to maintain regular meal, activity, and bedtime schedules.
• Maximise daylight – spend time outdoors or near windows during the day to help reset the body’s internal clock.
• Offer reassurance – calmly explain the time change if your loved one seems unsettled or confused.
• Use gentle lighting – soft, warm lighting in the evening can promote calm and help signal that it’s time to relax.

Special Considerations for Dementia Care

For those living with dementia, even small changes can have a big impact. The key is to create a familiar, reassuring environment. Consider the following strategies:

• Start adjusting routines gradually in the days leading up to the clock change.
• Keep the same Care Professional or familiar faces at regular times.
• Avoid major changes, such as new appointments or unfamiliar environments, immediately after the time change.
• Encourage meaningful daytime activities to help reduce restlessness in the evening.

Quick Checklist for Family Carers

To support your loved one during the clock change, you may find this checklist helpful:

• Keep meal and medication times unchanged
• Promote morning light exposure each day
• Gradually adjust sleep times before the change (by 10–15 minutes per day)
• Maintain a calm and predictable evening routine
• Monitor sleep, mood, and behaviour for one to two weeks after the change
• Contact a healthcare professional if confusion, anxiety, or sleep difficulties increase

Supporting Wellbeing All Year Round

Even small environmental changes can affect behaviour, especially for those with memory loss or cognitive decline. By keeping routines steady, encouraging time outdoors, and offering patience and understanding, families can help their loved ones feel safe, calm, and supported throughout the year.

At Radfield Home Care, our Care Professionals are trained to provide compassionate, person-centred support, including dementia care in Watford, Borehamwood and surrounding areas, that helps individuals stay comfortable and confident at home, whatever the season.

Get in touch with Radfield Home Care to learn more about our home care services in Watford & Borehamwood and how our friendly, local team can make life at home easier and more enjoyable for your family.