An Inside Look at Routines in Memory Care That Help Our Residents

When someone you love has dementia, routines become an important part of minimizing the chances of agitation. But how much do you know about what happens in a memory care unit? Did you know there are routines in memory care that are designed to be both safe and stimulating? This is a critical part of ensuring your loved one has the best care possible.

At Cedar Cove, our memory care center has 28 secured beds, and the unit is supervised by our experienced, well-trained staff who has decades of experience in assisting those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. When someone you love needs memory care, you realize this is not a service you can provide for them in your own home. 

Let us take the worry off your shoulders so you can step back into your role as son, daughter, spouse or sibling. We want you to be able to concentrate on spending quality time with those you love in an environment that provides peace of mind. Want to learn more? Please contact us to schedule a tour.

Next, we’ll review some of the most useful routines in memory care that make the biggest difference in the health and well-being of our residents.

Why Are Routines Used in Memory Care? 

Can you imagine the stress and devastation that follow in the wake of receiving a dementia diagnosis? Establishing and maintaining routines can help provide patients a sense of reassurance. This enables them to feel in control of certain activities, providing some sense of comfort. 

Following the same schedule repeatedly utilizes a different type of memory, one that stays intact longer than typical short-term memory. Daily plans aren’t only used in memory care. You’ll also find them in assisted living communities and adult day programs. Those with progressive dementia will eventually need help to organize their day. 

At Cedar Cove’s memory care community in Wilmington, we use whiteboards to display the current month and day of the week, and a daily schedule offers predictable, enjoyable activities that provide safe and effective stimulation.

How Can Routines Benefit Seniors in Memory Care?

These routines provide several benefits. We’ve listed a few of them below:

• Less agitation
• Better mood
• Reduced anxiety
• Improved sleep
• A sense of dignity

How Can Memory Care Routines Benefit Caregivers?

Caregiving at any level is exhausting, and this is especially true for those caring for a loved one at home. When dementia is involved, providing that care alone can become difficult, if not impossible.

Our memory care centers don’t only benefit our residents; they benefit you, too. The structured routines of memory care support you as a caregiver in several ways:

• Less stress: With a dependable daily structure in place, you no longer carry the weight of managing every schedule and decision on your own.
• More meaningful time together: When you’re not consumed by the logistics of care, you can focus on being present with your loved one.
• Deeper connection through predictability: Consistent routines help your loved one feel calm and secure, creating space for genuine moments together that the demands of around-the-clock caregiving can crowd out.
• Time to rest and recharge: Memory care gives you the chance to rest, knowing your loved one is safe and well cared for. Caring for yourself is not a luxury. It is what allows you to keep showing up for the person you love.

What Should Be Included in a Memory Care Routine?

There are several core elements that should be included as part of routines in memory care.  These include:

• Consistent wake and sleep times
• Regularly scheduled meals and snack times
• Extra time allotted for bathing, dressing and meals
• A variety of activities that may include:

• Music
• Art
• Crafts
• Reading
• Puzzles
• Social activities
• Gentle exercise or movement
• Spiritual activities 

How Do We Create Our Routines in Memory Care in Wilmington?

We believe that every resident has a distinct history, interests and story. We also recognize that some may be more alert in the morning while others are more active in the middle of the day. That’s why we make sure:

• We’re flexible: Remember, the routine is for the benefit of our residents. We’re not trying to force a routine on them. That’s why we leave room for spontaneity. 
• We watch for subtle cues: Because we take time to get to know our patients, we can easily pick up on cues that they may be bored or starting to become anxious. 
• We celebrate: We follow the recommendations of the Alzheimer’s Association, which states that joy and accomplishment matter more than how well a task is done, and they should be celebrated. 
• We adjust as needed: As abilities evolve, so should the routine. We always look for ways we can better serve our residents.

Enjoy Spending Time With Your Loved One Without the Stress of Caregiving

Too often, caregivers forget the simple joys of sharing a meal with someone they love. When that loved one has dementia, these moments become even more precious.

When you entrust their care to our assisted living community in Wilmington, you can rest in the assurance that someone trustworthy is watching over them, in a place where they can truly thrive.

Take the first step today. We invite you to schedule a tour and see why our residents love living at Cedar Cove.