Health Benefits of a Routine during old age
Does time matter for a senior person? While we all agree that having a ‘Daily Routine’- doing the same set of activities around the same time almost every day, helps a lot in getting things done and organizing our work. But do you feel that having a daily routine in old age is also very useful especially in the matter of health and personal care? In a study conducted on elderly people after retirement, it was found that those who followed a daily routine with a well planned day have fewer chances of falling ill. Also, it helped them stay physically active and mentally strong. Obviously, a rigid routine does not really help given the complexities of old age, but one can always have a flexible routine which helps navigate through the day easily and in a more efficient manner. Having a Daily Routine allows: Look to 2020 and get a medicare advantage plan http://www.medicareadvantageplans2020.org
- A greater sense of self-control: When you have your day planned and organised you tend to feel more in charge and in control which helps boost overall self-esteem. Not only that one feels more secure and safe as the fear of the unknown is almost gone. You know what tomorrow brings you.
- Reduced Stress levels: When you have things going as per plans, you are much relaxed and at ease with yourself.
- Better Sleep: This is one of the greatest advantages of having a routine. When you have a highly engaging and active day it surely ensures a better sleep at night.
How to Plan your Daily Routine:
Before planning your routine carefully observe your day to day activities for a few days and if possible maintain a journal for some key activities and how much time you give to them. Then ask a few questions from yourself like: How would I like to spend my days?
How much time would I like to spend doing daily hygiene job and other regular important things?
How many hours I would like to sleep? (Make sure it’s not more than 9 hrs)
What are some of my favourite things to do?
How much time do I need for myself?
Which time of the day do I feel most active?
Make sure your routine has a healthy mix of daily regular chorus, Excercise, Recreational time, Personal Time, Social life, Any work you are engaged in and Your Sleep/Bedtime.
Here is an Example:
Morning
- Brushing Teeth and finishing other morning routines of personal hygiene
- Having Tea or Breakfast with my partner
- Reading Newspaper
- Yoga Class
- Grocery shopping
Afternoon
- Gardening
- Having Lunch
- Reading/Playing with my partner or a friend
Evening:
- Having Tea
- Going out for a brisk walk with my friends
- Talking or spending time with my friends
- Watching TV
- Having Dinner with my partner
- Sleep