Life, especially, although not just, during the course of the pandemic, can be filled with uncertainties. For older adults who are feeling less in control of particular aspects of life, such as losing cognitive or physical functioning, concentrating on what can be controlled is empowering.
An excellent place to begin is by establishing a regular routine, customized to an older adult’s specific needs and interests. Bear in mind that the senior’s routine is not meant to be a rigid regimen to be adhered to, but merely the foundation for structure and predictability. With the older adult’s input and direction, make a decision on a preferred framework for every day. A sample day to day routine might look like this:
- Wake up at 7 a.m.
- Attend to personal hygiene needs and get dressed
- Enjoy breakfast on the back patio while listening to favorite music
- Go for a walk
- Tackle a puzzle or art project
- Pack a picnic lunch to take to the nearby park
- Run an errand
- Spend some quiet time reading or take a short nap
- Prepare dinner together and tidy up afterwards
- Take a bath
- Watch a favorite show
- Go to bed at 10 p.m.
Daily routines can help seniors and their caregivers alike, in a variety of ways:
- Routines lower anxiety and stress. Routines are comforting and calming, preventing the need to worry and wonder about what’s going to occur next, who will be there to help, and how to make sure that everything is going to be taken care of.
- Routines improve sleep. Research has shown that following a daily routine aids in sleep quality in addition to the ability to fall asleep and remain asleep.
- Routines allow for high quality time with family and friends. Older adults and those who care for them can create routines that incorporate satisfying time together. Include favorite pastimes, weekly lunch dates at a well-loved restaurant, even an end-of-the-day hug.
Our Burr Ridge home care team is skilled at creating personalized care plans and schedules to make each day the very best it can be for seniors and the ones who love them through a full range of home support services, such as:
- Morning wake-up help, including personal hygiene and cooking a nourishing breakfast
- Engaging companionship throughout the day and evening – whenever needed
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Shopping and other errands
- Medication reminders
- Transportation and accompaniment to outings, visits with family and friends, medical appointments, etc.
- And many more, based on each person’s particular needs
Contact us any time at (630) 323-4665 to get started and to request a no cost in-home consultation.