As the summer sun stretches across longer days, we receive more than just warmth—we receive a natural tool for improving health: sunlight. Our bodies operate on a 24-hour internal clock called the circadian rhythm, which influences everything from sleep and appetite to mood and mental clarity.
For older adults and people living with dementia, this rhythm often becomes disrupted. Common symptoms such as agitation, confusion, and poor sleep—especially in the late afternoon or early evening—can worsen without proper exposure to light. This is sometimes referred to as “sundowning.”
Morning sunlight plays a crucial role in resetting our internal clock each day. It signals the brain to wake up, stop producing melatonin (the sleep hormone), and start the day. For seniors and caregivers, this means better sleep at night, fewer behavioral disturbances, and more energy during the day.
Spending just 15–30 minutes outside in the morning or near a sunny window can help. And while sunlight has health benefits, it’s also important to stay safe—wear sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin.
Facts of the Week:
- Morning sunlight tells the body to stop making melatonin, helping us feel more awake and alert.
- Natural light exposure has been shown to reduce late-day confusion and agitation in people with dementia.
