Currently, Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday in November. Clocks ‘spring forward’ in the spring, and ‘fall back’ in the fall. And as the clocks spring forward or fall back, many of us anticipate the minor disruptions that accompany seasonal time changes. However, for individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, time changes can bring about additional challenges. Here’s why Daylight Saving Time can be particularly difficult for people with disabilities and some practical tips on how to help someone with a disability adjust more smoothly.
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Understanding the History of Daylight Saving Time:
The concept of Daylight Saving Time dates back to the early 20th century, with the goal of maximizing daylight and conserving energy consumption. Port Arthur, Ontario was the first municipality in the world to enact daylight savings time in July 1908 (Germany later became the first country to use the time change).
It was implemented during World War I as it was too expensive to keep homes lit up. The idea was that by giving people an extra hour of daylight at the end of the day, they would rely less on using energy to light up their homes. The idea quickly gained traction and was adopted by several other countries involved in the war, including the United Kingdom and the United States.
It was instituted again during World War II and during the energy crisis in the 1970s.
In the United States, DST was implemented and discontinued by individual states and localities until the Uniform Time Act of 1966 was passed. This Act established a system of uniform start and end dates for DST throughout the country. However, it allowed states the option to exempt themselves. As a result, there has been ongoing debate and inconsistency regarding the observance of DST in the United States.
However, its implementation and effectiveness have been a topic of debate. Over the years, it has undergone several changes, with various countries adopting and abandoning it based on economic, energy, and cultural considerations. In Canada and the United States, many provinces, territories, and states are considering opting out of the time changes.
After the U.S. passed the Uniform Time Act of 1966, Canada soon followed.
In March 2022, the U.S. Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent. However, the House of Representatives did not move forward with this legislation.
What about Canada? Is Ontario getting rid of Daylight Saving Time? For now, it is still in place. In 2020, the Ford government passed legislation that would end the bi-annual changing of the clock and make Daylight Saving Time permanent in Ontario. However, that has yet to happen.
The Impact of Daylight Saving Time on Health:
Time changes can pose many different health concerns. For individuals with neurological conditions, sleep disorders, and chronic illnesses, Daylight Saving Time can disrupt established routines, leading to increased fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and heightened pain levels. A further lack of sleep can be particularly challenging for those with psychological conditions or insomnia or sleep disorders. And many with chronic illness already struggle with sleep. Some people with certain medical conditions, including chronic pain, may also follow a specific sleep schedule, and disruptions may worsen their systems.
Daylight Savings Time commonly affects those with pre-existing mental health conditions. For example, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is often in full-swing at this time of year and can be made worse by changes in schedule and daylight. Waking up when it’s still dark out can be extremely difficult for some individuals and contribute to seasonal depression.
However, it goes deeper than that. For example, several studies have shown that there is an increase in heart attacks after the start of Daylight Saving Time in the spring. And stroke rates are 8% higher in the first two days after time changes. Another study showed that there is a 6% increase in fatal car accidents during the spring time change.
The “Western Edge” Effect:
One study found that people living on the western edge of a time zone, who get light later in the day, got even less sleep than those living on the eastern edge of time zones. The study found that those living on the western edge had higher rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and breast cancer. The study also found that people living on the western edge had lower incomes and higher health care costs.
Experts believe these health issues come from a combination of chronic sleep deprivation and circadian misalignment – a mismatch in timing between our biological circadian rhythm and our outside world and responsibilities.
The Impact on Children With Disabilities:
Time changes can also have a particular negative impact on children with special needs and disabilities. schedules. Disruption to those routines can cause anxiety and stress, impacting their daily lives. Children or others who may not fully understand the time change may be particularly sensitive to changes in routine, making the time transition even more challenging. This is because time changes often disrupt more than just sleep – rather it affects one’s whole day and routine – from when you sleep, eat, go to school or work, and come home. And some won’t understand why their day looks different.
Tips for Supporting Individuals with Disabilities during DST:
Whether you’re looking to ease the time shift on yourself or someone you care for, here are some tips on how to more easily adjust to Daylight Saving Time.
1. Educate and Advocate:
Share information about the history of Daylight Saving Time with friends, family, and caregivers to foster understanding and support. Advocate for accommodations when necessary to ease the transition for individuals with disabilities.
2. Plan Gradual Adjustments:
If you’re caring for someone with a disability, start adjusting their sleep schedule early. Gradually shifting their schedule can help ease the transition in the days leading up to Daylight Saving Time. Shift bedtime and wake-up times by 10-15 minutes each day to help the body acclimate more smoothly until you become accustomed to the new time.
3. Prioritize Consistency:
Emphasize the importance of maintaining consistent daily routines. Predictability can provide a sense of security, especially for individuals with neurological conditions or sensory sensitivities. Many children with disabilities thrive on following strict routines, and maintaining that routine can help them adjust. Try to keep things as normal as possible. Keeping a routine consistent can help ensure that your child knows what to expect. So rather than changing or coming up with a new routine at this time, just slowly shift it over to follow the new time.
4. Create a Good Sleep Environment:
Optimize your sleeping environment by using blackout curtains, white noise machines, or calming aromas. These measures can enhance the quality of sleep and mitigate disruptions caused by the time change. Limit screen time and other stimulating activities before bed so you or your child have plenty of time to wind down.
5. Encourage Exposure to Natural Light:
Promote exposure to natural light, especially in the morning. Sunlight helps regulate the body’s internal clock and can positively impact sleep-wake cycles. While with the spring change we will now get more light in the evening, it will be darker longer in the mornings. Thankfully the days are getting longer and soon it will be getting bright much earlier.
6. Seek Professional Guidance:
Connect with healthcare professionals, therapists, or support groups to gain additional insights and resources tailored to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities.
Legal and Workplace Considerations:
If you struggle with time changes, understanding the legal framework around workplace accommodations for those with disabilities during Daylight Saving Time (DST) transitions is crucial. Various employment laws exist to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities and ensure a fair and inclusive work environment.
1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations. During DST transitions, you can request adjustments to their work schedules, breaks, or lighting conditions to better manage the impact on their health.
2. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):
In the United States, FMLA provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for medical reasons. Individuals with disabilities facing significant challenges during DST changes may be eligible for FMLA leave, allowing you the time and flexibility needed to adapt. However, note that FMLA only applies to certain employees. Your must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months, worked at least 1250 hours over the past 12 months, and work at a location with at least 50 employees within a 75 mile radius.
Communicating with Employers:
Open and effective communication with employers is essential for securing necessary accommodations. Here are some tips for individuals with disabilities when discussing DST-related challenges with your employer:
1. Initiate a Conversation Early:
Approach your employer early, expressing your concern about the upcoming DST transition and its potential impact on your health. Be proactive in proposing specific accommodations that would help you manage the changes more effectively. This could include things like a flexible schedule or remote work.
2. Provide Medical Documentation:
If necessary, provide medical documentation from healthcare professionals outlining the impact of DST on your health and the recommended accommodations. This documentation can strengthen your case when discussing adjustments with your employer.
3. Explore Flexible Work Arrangements:
Inquire about the possibility of changes to your work schedule, such as flexible work hours, remote work, or compressed workweeks during the DST transition period. Offering alternative arrangements can be a mutually beneficial solution for both of you.
Navigating Workplace Policies:
Understanding your workplace policies and procedures related to time changes is crucial. Here are some considerations:
1. Review Company Policies:
Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies related to flexible work hours, remote work, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Companies often have established procedures for requesting accommodations.
2. HR Support:
Reach out to the Human Resources (HR) department for guidance. HR professionals can provide information on available resources, assist in navigating the accommodation process, and facilitate communication between employees and management.
3. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):
Explore whether your workplace has Employee Assistance Programs that offer additional support for employees facing challenges during DST transitions. These programs may provide counseling services, resources, and assistance in managing stress and health-related concerns.
By being aware of legal protections, effectively communicating with your employer, and navigating workplace policies, individuals with disabilities can advocate for the accommodations they need to navigate Daylight Saving Time transitions successfully. Employers, in turn, can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment for all employees.
Conclusion:
Daylight Saving Time may be a global tradition, but its impact on individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities is profound. By recognizing health concerns and implementing some of the strategies above, we can collectively support our loved ones, friends, and community members as they navigate the challenges of Daylight Saving Time with resilience and compassion.