Most of us live with a daily routine. When that routine is disrupted, it can throw our whole day off track. We all function better when we know what we are doing, so the same would apply to someone living with memory loss.
When someone is living every day with memory loss, a scheduled routine makes their life and that of their caregiver much more manageable. We can plan for disruptions, whereas they cannot.
Memory Loss and a Structured Routine
It is difficult enough for everyone when someone is living with memory loss. It is frustrating, scary, and can make life rather challenging for everyone. Keeping to a tight routine can help alleviate these issues.
Familiarity
There is something very comforting in our day-to-day life. The same faces, the same wallpaper, the same coffee mug. All of these bring us comfort and make us feel relaxed.
For someone with memory loss, even these little familiar things can bring about a feeling of peace and security. The same face of a family memory or the caregiver, the same kitchen table, the same teapot.
Doing the same thing every day, like a bath, getting dressed, or eating a meal, can all be difficult enough when someone has dementia. Making them all seem like routine and familiar will help make the tasks easier.
Less Anxiety
Even the simplest of tasks can trigger any type of panic attack or outburst. The more familiar these tasks are, the easier it is for the person. They may forget one step of the routine, but the next one may be fine as they remember it from yesterday.
Anxiety can lead to all kinds of problems. When there is an appointment or some type of event that breaks the routine, the person with memory loss can become extremely agitated.
The simple routine we all have might seem mundane to many but to someone with memory loss, it can be the one thing all day they understand and don’t stress about.
Less Stress for The Caregiver
Caring for someone with memory loss can feel like an uphill battle. The carer often finds themselves having to repeat the same instructions or reassurances time and time again.
A routine makes life easier for the caregiver, as well as the person they are caring for. Small upsets can add hours to a routine that should only take minutes.
The caregiver needs to be able to get all of their work done and keep moving forward. With a structured routine, they can get through their day with less stress and issues and have more time to do what they need to do.
Maintain Abilities
People with memory loss tend to forget how to do certain things. Some things are fine but others become a challenge. Forgetting how to tie a show or use a key in a lock can cause a lot of anxiety and even lead to behavior issues.
Keeping within a scheduled routine means that they are able to repeat the same tasks every day. This helps them retain the memory of what is needed to perform the task.
Repetitive behavior can help maintain the ability and memory of what is needed to perform each task, regardless of how easy it may seem to us. Routine and repeating daily tasks keep them fresher for much longer.
Better Sleep
Upset, anxiety, stress, and worry can all rob us of our sleep. Sleep is important for everyone but for people living with memory loss, it can make a big difference.
With the anxiety and fear of the unknown that comes with memory loss, not getting enough rest will only make it worse. People with memory loss tend to get up in the night and wander.
Wandering can cause a lot more anxiety and fear, as they may not be aware of where they are. This can lead to panic attacks and even more anxiety. A routine can make all of their surroundings more familiar and recognizable.
Less Chance of Accident
If a senior with memory loss is feeling anxious or fearful, they can panic. This can lead to them running off, falling, or getting injured in some other way. Keeping them safe within the confines of a scheduled daily format will help to keep them much safer.
If they are out and panic in an unfamiliar place, they could potentially fall victim to any number of accidents or mishaps. Keeping everything familiar will help them stay safer.
If you are worried about your loved one getting injured or lost, consider investing in the medical alert system. This gives them fast access to medical attention or other help, should they need it.
Embracing a Structured Approach for Improved Quality of Life
For seniors grappling with memory loss, structured daily routines are invaluable tools that foster a sense of security, independence, and overall well-being. By integrating familiar activities into their daily lives, individuals facing memory challenges can navigate their daily tasks with greater ease. Simultaneously, caregivers benefit from reduced stress levels and heightened efficiency in their caregiving responsibilities. Embracing this structured approach not only cultivates stability but also enriches the lives of both seniors and their caregivers, promoting a fulfilling and rewarding journey despite the hurdles posed by memory loss.