The Importance of Routine for Seniors

Get up, brush your teeth, get dressed, and start your day. We all follow routines, and these routines help keep us on task and oriented throughout the day. Routines are based on doing the same basic tasks every day at the same time, which builds daily structure. We sometimes fall out of our daily routines as we age and have fewer responsibilities. This can lead to a lack of motivation and unproductive behavior. Daily routines help us create positive daily habits and promote self-care, as well as help seniors feel more relaxed throughout the day. To improve their quality of life, seniors should maintain a routine every day.

Reduces Stress

Stress can be reduced by having a daily routine. Three out of four people report being stressed throughout the day, and the level of stress can increase with age. Having routines allows seniors to spend less time thinking about how to spend their day and more time participating in activities.

Keep Up Hygiene

For some seniors, hygiene tasks such as brushing their teeth and showering are difficult. Routines make this process easier for seniors since they allow them to accomplish these tasks at the same time every day, making them easier to remember. A whiteboard or notebook is also helpful. For seniors to stay on top of their medications, it's wise to invest in a pill planner.

Supports Healthy Eating Habits

When seniors don't plan out what they're going to eat each day, it's easy for them to forget to eat, which deprives them of the nutrition they need to get through the day. By planning their meals, seniors can balance nutritious meals and eat the correct amount of food per day. A nutritious diet may also boost mood and improve habits.

Improve Sleep

Sleep patterns can be improved by following a schedule. Sleep is essential for seniors, so it is imperative to establish a sleep schedule. The average person 65 years and older needs 7-8 hours of sleep every night, and establishing a routine is key to achieving this goal. Good sleeping habits improve daily habits and overall well-being.

Helps Seniors Feel Safe and Secure

It is not a good idea to surprise seniors with spontaneous activities since they can cause unnecessary stress. Having a daily routine and knowing their schedule can provide seniors with peace of mind. Routines create predictability, making seniors excited to begin their days.

Boosts Mood

Routines reduce stress, anxiety, and anger. This boosts the mood of seniors. It makes them feel at ease and excited to start the day knowing what they will eat, what they will do, and who they will be interacting with.

Routines are beneficial for both the senior and the person taking care of them. A routine reduces stress, allows more activities, and increases spirits. Routines can be created in many different ways, and different routines work for different people. It is important to assess one's personality before creating a routine since daily habits and personality influence routines. Visiting Angels Matawan strives to establish routines that make our clients feel safe and secure. In addition to keeping up their hygiene and healthy eating habits, we want them to participate in the activities they love.