As we welcome the arrival of spring, we also anticipate the upcoming change in our clocks – the transition to daylight saving time. With this change, it's essential to consider the impact it may have on the individuals we care for, especially regarding their natural waking patterns.
Carers are often so embroiled in the routines of the residents they care for, that they fail to notice the natural changes in the routine, they may try to redirect the residents to their usual routine.
In your role as Activity Coordinator, it is important that you highlight the changes that carers can expect at this time of year. By supporting them, you can support care home residents to navigate their personal routine so that they are ready to engage in more activities during the day.
You may have noticed that some residents have begun waking up earlier recently, coinciding with the brighter mornings we're currently experiencing. This is a natural response to the increasing daylight hours as spring approaches. As Activity Coordinators, it's crucial for us to understand why it's important to enable residents to embrace this change and how they can be supported during this transition.
Firstly, allowing individuals to wake up naturally aligns with their body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. This rhythm regulates our sleep-wake cycle, and disruptions to it, such as abrupt changes due to daylight saving time, can lead to feelings of grogginess and fatigue. By letting residents wake up at their own pace, we promote better sleep quality and overall wellbeing.
Embracing natural wake-up calls fosters a sense of autonomy and independence among our residents. It empowers them to listen to their bodies and respond accordingly, promoting a sense of control over their daily routines. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with cognitive impairments or those who may struggle with changes in their environment.
As we prepare to "spring forward" by adjusting our clocks forward by one hour this weekend, it's essential to be mindful of the potential impact on sleep patterns. Encourage individuals to gradually adjust their bedtime routines leading up to the time change, such as dimming lights in the evening and avoiding stimulating activities before bed. Additionally, ensure that the environment is conducive to sleep by minimising noise and creating a comfortable sleep space.
During this transition period, consider offering calming activities in the morning to support relaxation and ease into the day gently. This could include light stretching exercises, mindfulness practices, or enjoying a soothing cup of tea together. By providing opportunities for relaxation and self-care, we can help individuals navigate the shift in their sleep schedule more smoothly.
So, let's embrace the natural wake-up calls of spring and support individuals in maintaining their wellbeing during the transition to daylight saving time. By prioritising their sleep health and autonomy, we can create a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.
Ooh, and don't forget to ensure that ALL of the CLOCKS and WATCHES are changed on by Sunday 31st by 1am. This is particularly important for residents who have made arrangements for Easter Sunday with friends and family.