Building a Routine to Nurture Stability and Independence for Seniors
Since becoming my mother’s caregiver, I’m no stranger to the chaos that can come with unexpected medical issues, keeping up with tons of medications (and changes), medical appointments and making sure that I am doing my best to care for my mother while maintaining my own sanity.
TLDR: After months of chaos, I finally created a routine worksheet to make our lives easier. Download it here↗
Why Routines?
Establishing a routine has been a game changer in giving Mama independence and a life-saver for keeping the chaos of my days to a minimum.
As seniors like my mother age, I have witnessed firsthand how she grapples with the decline in her ability to care for herself. This loss of independence can take a toll on your wellbeing. As we age, everyday tasks can become more difficult, and the physical and cognitive changes can leave both seniors and their caregivers feeling like they've lost control. As a caregiver, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out how to support your loved one through this loss, not just physically, but emotionally.
Enter the hero: routines. In my experience, establishing a routine for my mother has been a game changer. It has given her some level of independence and has been a life-saver for keeping the chaos of my days to a minimum. Let’s explore the benefits of routines, including my favorite tips for implementing routines for seniors. Check out my downloadable Routine Building Worksheet that helped me build my mother’s routine.
Mama’s Journey | Mama had a very structured way of life when she lived independently, developing many daily routines that she maintained when she came to live with me. In caring for her, I discovered the stability and resilience that came with her routines. She even has routines within her routine, as each activity has rituals. From using the same cup for water, the familiar walk to the kitchen to get her medication and sitting in the same chair to take her medication each night, these habits play a pivotal role in maintaining my mother’s well-being. Her commitment to her routine, and even her struggles with occasional changes, reflects the deep sense of security it provides her.
Benefits Beyond Routine
The impact of a daily routine extends far beyond the visible activities. A study from the University of Pittsburgh showed that more than 37 percent of elderly participants who had “robust patterns” performed better on cognitive tests. The participants also showed fewer depressive symptoms.
I witnessed the physical and emotional benefits of having a routine firsthand in caring for Mama. Here’s how:
Fosters Independence and Autonomy
Routines support a level of independence and autonomy by allowing seniors to participate in daily activities. Knowing what will happen each day helps them have a sense of control while they grapple with the daily challenges of losing cognitive and physical control in their lives. For example, whenever I have a substitute caregiver, my mother often confidently informs them what comes next with meals, bath time, etc.
Minimizes Anxiety and Stress
As a worry wart myself, having a predictable routine caring for my mother provides comfort for both of us while reducing the worries about the unknown. Predictable routines provide a sense of security and familiarity, reducing anxiety and promoting emotional stability.
Promotes Meaningful Connections
Incorporating enjoyable activities and family time into a routine fosters meaningful connections and shared experiences. My mother looks forward to Mondays when my sister visits, or on Saturdays when she visits my sister’s home. They watch Jamaican YouTube videos together, play dominoes and share family stories. Knowing that her next visit is a few days away gives her something to look forward to and a sense of security.
Improves Sleep Quality
Research studies show a positive correlation between consistent routine and enhanced sleep quality. My mother wakes up, goes to bed and takes daily naps at the same time each day. Consistent daily routines can contribute to better sleep patterns and overall sleep quality.
Provides a Sense of Purpose
Routines provide structure and purpose to daily life, giving seniors a sense of control and accomplishment. Mama knows her routine well and will often initiate activities, and give reminders about them.
Enhances Safety
Establishing routines around daily activities can enhance safety by reducing the risk of accidents or forgetfulness, especially in individuals dealing with mobility or memory issues. My mother’s awareness of the safety measures incorporated into bath time routines (i.e., getting help with setting the water temperature , and transferring in and out) has lessened the likelihood of accidents.
Supports Memory
Engaging in regular patterns and structured activities as part of a routine provides ongoing cognitive stimulation, essential for maintaining brain health and supporting memory functions. As routines involve repeating actions and tasks, it helps individuals to focus their attention on specific tasks.
*It's important to note that while routines can support memory, they are not a cure for memory disorders. For those experiencing significant memory challenges, consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and management.
Here are some tips for You, caregivers, to help with developing a routine for your elderly loved one:
List and prioritize daily, weekly and monthly activities
This allows you to include all important tasks so that you can prioritize and allocate time efficiently. While unexpected events may occur, having a routine in place helps caregivers manage their time more effectively, reducing stress. Include sleep-awake cycle, hygiene, meals, exercise, medication, doctor’s appointments. Use this downloadable Routine Building Worksheet to get started.
List activities that are important for social, emotional, cognitive, and physical wellbeing
Fun activities are especially helpful here. This may include, visiting with family and friends, outdoor activities, movies, television, painting, coloring, word puzzles, etc. You can get ideas from your elderly loved one, family members, or online research, etc. Use this downloadable Routine Building Worksheet to make your list.
Personalize it
Observe your loved one’s daily activities and habits. Get input from them and family members. Each caregiving situation is unique, and routines should be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the senior and the caregiver.
Don’t cram too many tasks in one day
Too many tasks can create stress for both you and your loved one. Include free time. This is especially helpful when unexpected things pop up.
Be patient
Building a routine takes time, and it's essential to start with small, manageable steps to gradually introduce predictability into daily caregiving tasks.
Build in extra time
Things will go awry! Extra time can reduce stress when tasks take longer than expected. For example: If a task usually take 30 minutes, schedule 40 minutes; if one hour, schedule an hour and 20 minutes.
Be flexible, anticipate hurdles
Again, things will go awry! Challenges will inevitably arise, such as resistance to change or unexpected health issues. If you acknowledge that and proactively seek solutions, it may minimize frustration. Communicate openly with your loved one and other family members to collaboratively address challenges as they come up.
Communicate often
Check in regularly! Go over the schedule with your elderly loved one and give reminders before each task. When there has to be a change, let them know what the change is and why. Remind them of the change often. They will need reminders!
Write it down
Memorialize your routine by writing it down. This helps you and your loved one to have a visual reminder, and is certainly helpful when you have a substitute caregiver. Here’s my downloadable Weekly Routine template to help you.
Starting out with a routine can be tough. Creating a routine that worked for both my mother and myself was not easy. While she already had a routine, we still had to work on balancing the many competing priorities of her needs, wants, my schedule and and beliefs about what was necessary. It took time, a lot of trial-and-error, and consultation with her and our family members to land on a routine that worked for us. I also review our routine regularly to determine if changes are needed.
Here is my downloadable Routine Building Worksheet to help you build a routine. It includes a handy Weekly Routine Worksheet and Sample Weekly Routine to help you get started.
