What is a routine?

A routine is something that a person does every day or almost every day.

1. Establishing routines for the person with dementia during the day What is a routine? A routine is something that a person does every day or almost every day. It is important to try and continue the routine of the person living with dementia for as long as possible. This is reassuring and can reduce stress at home. Be aware of the person’s usual routine. If there has not been a routine, for example in the evening, then it is helpful to develop one and follow it regularly. This might include drinking a cup of tea, listening to soothing music, or saying prayers.

It is helpful to have routines for other times of the day as well, such as immediately after getting up from bed in the morning, when having the midday meal or planning what to do in the afternoon.

The simpler and easier these routines are to follow, the more likely they will reassure the person living with dementia and reduce stress at home.