How do you handle a person with dementia who is obsessed with certain routines

When someone has dementia, they often become very attached to certain routines. These routines can feel like a safe anchor in a confusing world. But what if the person becomes obsessed with these routines? How do you handle that without causing stress for them or yourself?

First, it helps to understand why this happens. Dementia affects memory and thinking, making the world unpredictable and scary for the person experiencing it. Routines provide comfort because they create predictability and reduce anxiety.

Here are some simple ways to support a person with dementia who is fixated on their routines:

**1. Keep Routines Consistent**
Try to maintain regular daily schedules as much as possible—meals at the same time, familiar activities in order, bedtime rituals repeated each night. Studies show that consistent routines can reduce behavioral problems by about 37% in people living at home with dementia[1]. Predictability helps them feel more secure.

**2. Be Patient and Flexible**
If they insist on doing something repeatedly or in a particular way, try not to argue or force change abruptly. Instead, gently guide them when needed but respect their need for routine as much as possible.

**3. Use Distraction and Redirection**
If an obsession becomes disruptive or unsafe (like repeatedly checking locks), calmly redirect their attention to another activity they enjoy—music therapy, pet therapy, art projects—or even light exercise[2]. These activities improve mood and can ease agitation.

**4. Create New Positive Habits Slowly**
Sometimes introducing small changes gradually into their routine can help expand what feels safe without overwhelming them—for example adding a short walk after breakfast or listening to favorite songs before dinner[3].

**5. Support Yourself Too**
Caring for someone with dementia is challenging; caregivers should set realistic expectations and seek support when needed so burnout doesn’t happen[4]. Remember that your calm presence helps keep things steady.

In summary: Embrace the power of routine while staying gentle and flexible around obsessions caused by dementia’s effects on the brain. Consistency brings comfort; patience brings peace; creative distractions bring relief—for both of you.

This approach respects how dementia changes perception while helping maintain dignity and quality of life through understanding rather than confrontation.