Why Daylight Savings Time Matters in Hospice and Palliative Care

As a caregiver, your time revolves around the needs of those you support. When daylight savings time shifts the clock forward or backward, it can throw off carefully planned routines—especially for those receiving hospice or palliative care. By preparing ahead of time, you can ease the transition for yourself and your loved one, ensuring comfort and stability.

Many hospice patients rely on consistent schedules for medications, meals and rest. A sudden change—even just an hour—can disrupt their sense of stability. For patients with cognitive decline, such as dementia, shifts in daylight can cause confusion and agitation. As a caregiver, your well-being also matters. A disrupted sleep schedule can make it harder to provide the care and support your loved one needs.

Adjust Gradually

Instead of shifting all at once, begin adjusting your loved one’s schedule a few days before.  Move meals, medications, and bedtime by 10-15 minutes each day to ease into the time change.

Keep Light in Mind

Natural light plays a big role in regulating sleep patterns. Open curtains in the morning to help signal wake time, and dim lights in the evening to promote rest. If your loved one is sensitive to light changes, consider blackout curtains or a bedside lamp with soft lighting to maintain consistency.

Stick to Routine

Even with the time shift, try to keep daily activities predictable. Familiarity is key, especially for hospice patients who find comfort in routine. Maintain the same order of activities—morning hygiene, meals, rest periods and social interactions—to provide a sense of security.

Monitor Sleep and Restlessness

Some patients may struggle with disrupted sleep during the transition. Pay close attention to any increased agitation, confusion, or changes in sleeping patterns. If necessary, talk to your hospice team about adjusting medications or sleep strategies.

Take Care of Yourself

As a caregiver, your health matters, too. Lack of sleep or stress from the time change can affect your ability to provide care. Prioritize rest, stay hydrated, and ask for support if you need it. A well-rested caregiver is a stronger, more present source of comfort.

Support from Your Hospice Team

Hospice and palliative care teams are there to help you navigate these changes. If your loved one experiences increased discomfort or difficulty with the time shift, reach out. They can provide guidance, reassurance, and adjustments to care plans if needed.

Daylight savings time is a minor change on the calendar but can have a big impact on those in hospice and their caregivers. With small, thoughtful adjustments, you can ease the transition, maintaining comfort and stability for both you and your loved one.