The Importance of a Daily Routine in Dementia Care
For older people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, routines can be very beneficial. They can help our older loved ones feel more secure and in control of their lives, helping them develop good habits they can stick to.
A routine that combines predictability with moments of joy can have additional benefits. Here are a few simple tips on creating a routine that brings joy and comfort.
What are the Benefits of Routine for Individuals with Dementia?
A daily routine for dementia patients is an excellent way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and enjoy life to the fullest.
Adding a consistent daily structure can benefit people of any age, but is extra important for the physical and mental health of older people, especially those living with Alzheimer's and dementia.
But remember, routines aren’t all business. There should be plenty of time scheduled for activities that bring you joy and keep life rich and meaningful.
Reduces stress and anxiety
As older adults begin to deal with health issues, they may feel stressed and anxious. A routine lets older people know what to expect each day, making them less likely to feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Increases feeling of safety and security
The ageing process brings many changes and intense emotions. If older people are unsure of what the future holds, a routine can make them feel confident and safe by providing a familiar and predictable environment. It also makes it easier to plan activities with family and friends.
Improves sleep
A consistent routine can help regulate the body’s internal clock, making falling and staying asleep easier. Sleep quality directly affects energy, memory, and overall health.
Helps manage symptoms
Dementia and Alzheimer's have less impact on the area of the brain that controls procedural memory, so it’s actually easier for those with these conditions to remember and follow a structured routine each day.
How to Create a Routine that Brings Joy
Setting up a routine is empowering and creates a sense of control, especially if physical ability or mobility is limited.
Keep in mind that the routine is not meant to be a strict schedule but rather a realistic foundation for structure and predictability.
1. Person-centred decision-making
The main goal of a routine is to meet the needs of the older person, so getting their input is key. Each plan should consider their unique abilities, desires, and interests.
Be sure to go over the details of what they want their days to look like. Putting too many activities into each day can cause frustration, so working on a plan together is essential.
2. Set realistic goals
Focus on the “can,” not the “can’t,” and modify activities as needed. Setting realistic goals makes them more achievable and enjoyable.
Start gradually rather than pushing their limits right out of the gate. Measuring progress along the way will let you know when to make changes.
3. Start with a simple routine
It doesn’t have to be complicated or overscheduled. Start by including essential activities such as meals, medication, hobbies, and exercise.
As older people become more comfortable with the routine, they will notice the benefits, and then more activities can be arranged.
4. Include enjoyable activities
Routines don’t have to be boring. Focus on activities they enjoy, such as reading, gardening, walking, or spending time with loved ones.
Social engagements can not only brighten an older person’s day but also improve health, so make sure to include time for the things they love.
5. Be flexible
Allow space for spontaneity or changes. For example, maybe Tuesday was forecasted to be rainy but turned out to be bright and sunny; you take a rain check on your craft day and start the herb garden instead.
Appointments, visits with family and friends, and special outings all fall under this category, too.
6. Prioritise nutrition
A well-balanced diet should be part of the routine because it supports overall health and energy levels. Some older people experience changes in taste and smell, so planning meals to accommodate these changes is important.
Regularly spaced meals also help control and maintain blood sugar levels, which is essential for older people with diabetes.
7. Make a schedule
A daily schedule helps older people manage parts of their routine, feel more in control, and reduce stress.
Write reminders where older people can see them, set timers so they know when to exercise, and create to-do lists for daily tasks such as personal care and errands. These can help older people keep track of their daily activities.
Sample Routine
Need help getting started? Here’s a sample daily routine outline to use as a starting point:
Morning
Try to wake up at the same time every day
Drink a glass of water
Take any necessary medication
Eat a healthy breakfast
Afternoon
Go for a walk or do some light exercise
Have lunch
Take a nap or rest for a while
Engage in a hobby
Evening
Prepare a healthy dinner
Spend time with loved ones, socialise over the phone or via video call
Engage in relaxing activities such as reading or a puzzle
Take any necessary medication
Go to bed at the same time every night
Give the Routine a Test Run
Giving the routine a test run allows everyone involved, from carers to older people, to see if it supports the needs and goals as expected. It also gives them a chance to notice the benefits.
A few small changes may be in order—adding something here, taking something away there, or moving activities from the morning to the afternoon. You may need to adjust the routine over time, so regular re-evaluation will let you know if it is still achieving the goal.
Daily routines help reduce stress and anxiety because they help people with dementia know what to expect. The tips in this guide might seem simple or obvious to you, but they can greatly improve the life of a loved one living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Even little things can go a long way in helping them to feel more secure and in control, and ultimately live more joyful lives.
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