life is frequently filled with uncertainties. For older adults who are feeling less in control of particular facets of life, such as losing physical or cognitive functioning, concentrating on what can be controlled is empowering and helps promote senior independence.
A great place to begin is by establishing a regular routine, personalized to an older adult's specific interests and needs. Keep in mind the older adult's routine is not designed to be a rigid schedule that must be adhered to, but merely the foundation for predictability and structure. With the older adult's input and direction, decide on a preferred framework for each day. A sample day to day routine may look like this:
Wake up at 7 a.m.
Take care of personal hygiene needs and get dressed
Enjoy breakfast in the sunroom while listening to the news
Go for a walk
Work on a puzzle or art project
Pack a picnic lunch to take to the nearby park
Run a few errands
Take a brief nap or spend some quiet time reading
Make dinner together and tidy up afterwards
Bathe
Watch a movie
Go to sleep at 10:00 p.m.
Daily routines are beneficial for seniors and their caregivers alike, in a number of ways:
Routines lower stress and anxiety. Routines are calming and comforting, eliminating the need to worry and wonder about what is going to happen next, who will be there to assist, and how to ensure that everything is going to be taken care of.
Routines improve sleep. Research has shown that sticking with a regular routine aids in sleep quality as well as the ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Routines allow for quality time with friends and family. Seniors and people who care for them can create routines that incorporate enjoyable time together. Include favorite pastimes, weekly lunch dates at a favorite restaurant, even an end-of-the-day hug.
The Care Company’s care team is experienced in creating customized care plans and schedules in order to make each day the very best it can be for seniors and those who love them through a comprehensive range of home support services, such as:
Morning wake-up help and support, including personal hygiene and cooking a nourishing breakfast
Friendly 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 others, based on each individual's particular needs
Contact us any time at (416) 422-2273 for more information and to schedule an in-home consultation to learn more about our top-rated senior help in the Toronto metro area.