Every spring and fall, most Americans adjust their clocks for Daylight Saving Time (DST)—“springing forward” in March and “falling back” in November. While these clock changes may seem simple, they affect more than just our schedules. Our bodies operate according to an internal clock called the circadian rhythm, a 24-hour system that helps regulate sleep, mood, appetite, alertness, and many other biological functions.
Why Time Changes Matter
Health experts who study sleep and circadian biology have found that abrupt shifts in the clock can disrupt the body’s internal rhythm, even if the difference is only one hour. When clocks change:
• People often lose sleep or experience fragmented sleep in the days that follow—this is especially true after the “spring forward” shift. (Harvard Health)
• Disruptions to sleep patterns can affect mood, energy, focus, and overall well-being. (health.com)
• Circadian rhythms naturally shift and weaken with age. Older adults often experience earlier bedtimes, lighter sleep, and less deep sleep, which can make sleep changes harder to manage. (Sleep Foundation)
Because older adults have less flexible sleep-wake cycles and are more sensitive to changes in their internal clocks, even a small time shift can have a bigger impact on things like alertness, mood, memory, daily routines, and even medication schedules. Sleep disruptions in seniors have been linked to increased confusion, risk of falls, and challenges with regular daily routines. (AgingCare)
What Researchers Say
Organizations dedicated to sleep research, such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, point out that seasonal clock changes are associated with a range of health effects, including disturbed sleep and changes in mood. They advocate for eliminating biannual time changes because staying on standard time year-round better aligns with human biology. (sleepeducation.org)
Helpful Tips for Seniors
To ease the transition smoothly:
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule in the days before and after the time change.
• Get exposure to natural light early in the day—this helps reinforce the body’s internal rhythm.
• Continue regular meals, exercise, and social activities to support routine stability.
The staff at Wesley Place on Honeysuckle in Dothan, Alabama, understands that changes, even small ones like adjusting the clock, can feel uncomfortable or confusing for some residents. Our care team is experienced in supporting older adults through changes in routine and sleep patterns. With compassion, patience, and individualized attention, we help residents adapt in ways that honor comfort, dignity, and well-being.
If you or your loved one has questions about how the time change may impact sleep or daily routines of your family member living with us or if you would like more information about our care and services, just contact us. The team at Wesley Place on Honeysuckle is here to help.
References:
The dark side of daylight saving time - Harvard Health
February 28, 2023
How Daylight Saving Time Affects Mental Health
November 5, 2021
How Circadian Rhythms Change as We Age
July 22, 2025
5 Tips for Coping With the Effects of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time - Sleep Education by the AASM
June 2, 2025