Daylight Saving Time Ending Could Negatively Impact Health, Experts Warn

As daylight saving time (DST) concludes on November 1, the return to standard time may offer an extra hour of sleep, but experts caution that this shift can have detrimental effects on the health of certain individuals. While most healthy people can naturally adjust to the time change within a week, the disruption can be more significant for those with pre-existing health conditions.

Dr. Courtney Stefanski notes that DST changes can disrupt the biological clocks of individuals with dementia, potentially leading to fragmented sleep, restless nights, and increased confusion. To mitigate these effects, she recommends ensuring exposure to morning light, utilizing bright indoor lighting in the late afternoon, and maintaining consistent evening routines. If confusion or agitation escalates, Stefanski advises reducing background noise, offering reassurance, and identifying potential triggers such as pain, dehydration, or hunger. Any sudden or significant changes in confusion warrant professional medical evaluation.

Sleep plays a critical role in cardiovascular health, as blood pressure naturally lowers during rest. Disruptions to sleep schedules, even minor ones, can alter heart rate and blood pressure in individuals with existing heart conditions. Stefanski suggests that to manage the time change, those with cardiovascular issues should limit late-day caffeine intake, maintain regular blood pressure monitoring, and adhere strictly to their prescribed medication schedules. Any uncertainty about medication timing after the time change should be clarified with a healthcare provider.

The body's internal clock also influences glucose processing and insulin response, making DST shifts particularly challenging for individuals with diabetes. Proactively adjusting meal times and medication schedules to the new clock time, while adhering to the overall treatment plan, can help. For those using insulin, continuous glucose monitors, or blood glucose meters, Stefanski advises continued monitoring as recommended by their care team and vigilance for readings outside the normal range. Consulting a diabetes clinician or pharmacist is recommended before making any self-adjustments to insulin or medication dosages.

Older adults, particularly those with mobility or balance issues, should exercise increased caution during this transition. Stefanski highlights that disrupted sleep can lead to daytime fatigue and unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls, especially if taking medications that cause drowsiness or dizziness. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death for adults aged 65 and older. To enhance safety during evenings and overnight, Stefanski recommends using nightlights, keeping pathways clear, ensuring essential items are within reach, and sitting on the edge of the bed before standing if experiencing lightheadedness. She also advises seeking medical attention for new dizziness, unsteadiness, or falls, and consulting a healthcare professional before altering any medications.