1. Importance of Consistent Routines
Consistent routines are among the most effective non-drug strategies in promoting healthy aging. Routines add structure and decrease anxiety and encourage independence (Harrison & Lee, 2020). Research on geriatric nursing indicates that patients who have a predictable daily routine demonstrate higher rates of medication adherence, decreased number of emergency room visits, and better sleep quality (Matsumoto et al., 2019).
Routines help cognitively impaired senior reduce confusion and sundowning because of recognizable stimuli (Wong & Chen, 2021). In addition, routines make it easier for caregivers to organize care activities, prevent decision fatigue, and detect changes in senior’s health early (Geriatric Care Guidelines, 2022).