When the Clocks Change: Helping Older Adults Adjust to Daylight Saving Time

On Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, clocks will move back one hour as daylight saving time ends. While many people welcome the extra hour of sleep, the change can disrupt familiar routines, particularly for older adults and people living with serious illness.

Even a one-hour shift can affect sleep, appetite and energy levels. With the sun setting earlier, some people may also notice changes in their mood or increased confusion later in the day.

A few adjustments can help make the transition easier.

Why the Time Change Can Be Difficult for Older Adults

Our bodies follow an internal clock that helps regulate when we feel awake, hungry and ready for sleep. Changes in daylight can affect that rhythm. Older adults may be more sensitive to these disruptions, especially those living with dementia or other health conditions. For someone with dementia, earlier sunsets may contribute to sundowning, a term used to describe increased confusion, restlessness or agitation in the late afternoon and evening.

Caregivers may notice changes in sleeping patterns, increased fatigue or difficulty settling into evening routines.

Five Ways to Make the Adjustment Easier

1. Keep daily routines consistent.

Try to maintain regular times for meals, medications and activities. Familiar routines can help reduce confusion and provide structure throughout the day.

2. Make the most of natural light.

Open curtains in the morning or spend time outdoors when possible. Exposure to daylight helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.

3. Pay attention to evening lighting.

As darkness arrives earlier, keep living spaces comfortably lit during the late afternoon. Gradually dimming lights closer to bedtime can help signal that it’s time to rest.

4. Watch for changes in sleep or behavior.

Some people may become tired earlier, wake during the night or seem more restless in the evening. Keep track of changes that persist or interfere with daily activities.

5. Allow time to adjust.

Not everyone adapts immediately. Small changes to bedtime and daily routines may help ease the transition without creating additional disruption.

For people receiving hospice or palliative care, changes in sleep and behavior deserve attention. While the time change may contribute to disrupted routines, new or worsening confusion, agitation or unusual sleepiness should not automatically be attributed to daylight saving time.

These symptoms can have other causes, including medication effects, pain or changes in a person’s medical condition. If you notice a significant change, contact your care team. They can help identify possible causes and recommend appropriate next steps.

The end of daylight saving time is a reminder that even small changes in routine can affect someone living with serious illness.

At Reserve Care, our hospice and palliative care teams work with patients and families to address symptoms, manage changes in condition and support comfort at home or wherever care is provided. If you’re concerned about changes in a loved one’s sleep, behavior or comfort, our team can help you understand what may be happening and what to do next.