Get clocks that display the day and date

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One of my Mom’s biggest struggles is keeping track of dates and the day of the week. If we told her on Monday that we were going somewhere on Friday, she would think we were going every day leading up to Friday. One time, I reminded her on a Monday that we were leaving early on Saturday to go to my brother’s in Florida. Thursday at 4:00 am, she woke me up because she thought we were getting picked up to go to the airport. She did it again on Friday too. From then on, we stopped telling her when we were going somewhere until the day we were going because it would get stuck in her head and loop around like a broken record. 

One thing that can help is a digital clock that displays the day of the week and the date on it. This seems so simple and obvious but I didn’t think of it until a friend of mine, Scott (thank you!), said he got one for his Mom who also had dementia. I had been using multiple calendars — one by the coffee machine and one by her pills. But then I got three of these clocks for different spots in her house:

  1. One on her night table so when she wakes up she can see what day of the week it is.
  2. One in the family room where she spends most of her time.
  3. One by her pills so she knows what pills to take today (pictured below).

 

Here are some other reasons why you may consider getting these clocks for your elderly parent with dementia:

1. Reduces Confusion and Anxiety
For someone with dementia, losing track of time can be disorienting and stressful. Questions like, “What day is it?” or “Is it morning or evening?” can arise frequently. A clock that prominently displays not only the time but also the day and date provides a clear point of reference. This reduces the need for constant reassurance from caregivers and helps your loved one feel more grounded.

2. Supports Daily Routines
Maintaining a consistent daily routine is crucial for people with dementia. Knowing the time of day and the current date helps them stay aligned with activities like meals, medication schedules, and appointments. A clock with these features acts as a gentle guide, empowering them to follow their routine with less dependence on others.

3. Promotes a Sense of Independence
Dementia can erode a person’s sense of independence, which is often distressing. Providing tools that help them navigate their day more easily can restore some autonomy. A clock that answers basic questions about time and date can reduce their reliance on caregivers for such information, fostering a greater sense of control.

4. Aids Memory and Orientation
Clocks designed for people with dementia often have large, easy-to-read displays and include additional features like the day of the week spelled out in full. This is particularly helpful because dementia can make it harder to recall or process information. Seeing “Monday, January 8, 2025” spelled out in clear text reinforces orientation in a simple, non-intrusive way.

5. Enhances Communication
Frequent questions about time and date can sometimes lead to frustration, both for the individual with dementia and their caregivers. By having the answers readily available on a clock, conversations can shift away from repeated inquiries to more meaningful interactions.

6. Improves Sleep-Wake Cycles
Dementia often disrupts the body’s internal clock, causing confusion between day and night. Clocks with clear AM/PM indicators or even “morning” and “evening” labels can help differentiate between times of day. This can improve sleep-wake cycles and reduce nighttime wandering.

What to Look for in a Clock for Dementia

If you’re considering buying a clock for a loved one with dementia, here are a few features to prioritize:

  • Large, High-Contrast Display: Easy-to-read text and numbers are essential.

  • Day and Date: Full spelling of the day and date helps with orientation.

  • AM/PM or Time of Day Labels: Indicators like “Morning,” “Afternoon,” or “Night” are helpful for differentiating times.

  • Battery Backup: Ensures the clock stays accurate even during power outages.

  • Custom Alarms: Some clocks allow you to set reminders for medications or appointments.

 

Here are links to the clocks I bought:

 

Final Thoughts

A clock that displays the day, date, and time is more than just a timepiece—it’s a tool for improving quality of life. For an elderly parent with dementia, it provides clarity, reduces anxiety, and fosters independence. For caregivers, it’s one less worry and a step toward creating a more supportive environment.

Investing in a dementia-friendly clock is a small step with big rewards. It’s a simple way to show your love and care while empowering your parent to navigate their world with greater ease and confidence.