Why it’s important to have a regular routine
A consistent, regular routine is beneficial for a person with dementia as it will help to reduce the likelihood of confusion and anxiety.
If you make any sudden changes to your loved one’s routine, you may notice they become increasingly confused, anxious or even distressed. Where possible, try to follow the same routine every day. Encourage your loved one to get up and go to bed at the same time and go out for walks or run errands at the same time of day.
There will be some days when a change in routine can’t be avoided, such as taking the person to a medical appointment. However, try to be as consistent as possible.
Give your loved one plenty of time to get ready for appointments. Don’t rush them and allow more time than you would normally need. If they don’t want to go out, don’t try to force them or tell them they must go. Give them time and space and try again later.
Over time, your loved one will gradually lose the ability to plan and organise their schedule. This means you will need to help them follow a routine that gives them comfort and reassurance. In the earlier stages of their dementia, you may need to help them plan their calendar and manage their appointments. Eventually, you will need to manage their schedule on their behalf.
Dealing with holiday celebrations
Seasonal occasions can be confusing as routines can change. Many people have a change of routine over the Christmas and Easter holidays. Your loved one may struggle during the festive break if their routine or environment changes suddenly.
As their condition takes hold, they will usually prefer to spend more time at home in familiar and comforting surroundings. While it may be tempting to take them to a relative’s home for Christmas, a different environment with a new routine (or no routine), an unfamiliar bed if they are staying overnight and more people around can cause confusion.Â
During seasonal holidays, encourage other family members to come to your loved one’s home instead of causing upheaval.
You may think that taking the person away on holiday will be a nice break for them to enjoy. However, the travel involved and a new environment may be daunting and tiring for your loved one. Have a careful think about what they can realistically manage and avoid any trips with especially long travel. Weekend trips might be better than longer breaks.
Get organised
While creating a regular routine for your loved one will benefit them, having your own routine will help you become more organised and manage your caring role.
Write a to-do-list of key tasks, then organise them through the week, dividing them up into priority tasks and less important ones.
Make sure you factor in some time to pursue your own interests, even if it’s just for an hour a week.