A change in daylight is expected across the UK on Sunday 25 October, when clocks will be moved back by one hour.
Alzheimer’s Society Cymru has warned that the altered light and disrupted routine may be difficult for some people living with dementia.
The charity’s local support services have offered four suggestions to help families and carers manage the transition.
One measure is to make preparations on Saturday night, including serving dinner and going to bed an hour later than usual, so that the person can receive their normal amount of sleep and wake at their customary time on Sunday.
Another suggestion is to preserve established daily patterns.
Scheduling activities at consistent times, such as taking a walk after breakfast, may help settle an unsettled body clock and provide greater clarity about the time of day.
Daylight can also be used to support better sleep.
Gentle exercise outdoors may encourage sleepiness later in the evening, while people who cannot go outside could benefit from ample morning light indoors or the use of a lamp or lightbox.
Automatic timepieces may assist with orientation.
Radio-controlled clocks that set themselves automatically can display the correct hour, and Day and Night clocks are designed to help people with dementia recognise whether it is morning or evening.
Rachel Nelson, country manager at Alzheimer’s Society Cymru, explained that although the clock change may appear minor, an abrupt alteration in daylight and routine can cause confusion or distress for someone living with dementia.
She said that planning beforehand, maintaining regular habits and making use of available daylight are practical measures that can make the change easier to manage.
Support and practical information are available for people caring for someone with dementia.
The charity is also drawing attention to the arrival of colder weather.
Families are being encouraged to help people with dementia remain warm, support regular physical activity, use natural daylight where possible and ensure that meals and drinks are taken regularly.
As evenings become longer, people are also being asked to check on relatives, friends and neighbours who are living with dementia.
Information, advice and support can be obtained through the Alzheimer’s Society Cymru Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.