Creating a Wellness Routine for the People You Support

How small, intentional steps can lead to healthier, happier days

When we think of “wellness,” we often picture fitness classes, meditation apps, and balanced meals - but in care settings, wellness goes much deeper. For individuals with additional support needs, wellness encompasses emotional stability, physical health, social connection, mental stimulation, and above all, a sense of safety and routine.

Whether you're a professional carer, a family member, or part of a support team, helping someone establish and maintain a wellness routine can transform not just their day - but their overall wellbeing. In this article, we explore how to build a routine that supports the whole person in a realistic, sustainable way.

1. Begin With the Person

Every person you support is unique. What works for one individual might be overwhelming or unsuitable for another.

Start by asking:

• What makes them feel good?

• What are their daily rhythms and preferences?

• Are there sensory sensitivities or mobility considerations?

• What cultural or religious needs should be included?

Create a care and wellness plan that centres the individual’s voice, abilities, and needs. Even if someone is non-verbal or has cognitive differences, their preferences can often be observed through behaviour, routines, or communication aids.

💡 Tip: Involve the person as much as possible in planning - choice and autonomy are powerful wellness tools.

2. Incorporate Movement in Ways That Feel Good

Physical activity isn’t about pushing limits - it’s about gentle, engaging movement that helps the body and mind.

Regular movement:

• Improves circulation and joint mobility

• Boosts mood and reduces anxiety

• Supports sleep and digestion

• Helps maintain independence

Ideas might include:

• Stretching routines in the morning

• Nature walks or wheelchair-accessible strolls

• Chair yoga or tai chi

• Dancing to favourite music

• Water play or gentle swimming

Don’t worry about “exercise goals” - the focus should be on movement that feels good, fits the person's needs, and can be done regularly.

3. Make Food and Hydration Part of Wellbeing

Nutrition is foundational for wellness, but it’s also an opportunity for connection and independence. Support the person to engage in mealtime where possible, whether that’s choosing ingredients, helping with prep, or setting the table.

Try:

• Offering visual choices between meals or snacks

• Keeping food presentation appealing and sensory-friendly

• Using adaptive tools for independent eating

• Encouraging regular hydration - try fruit-infused water, fun cups, or scheduled reminders

  
  

Adults should aim for 6–8 glasses of water per day, but people with different health needs may require more or less - check with health professionals if unsure. Dehydration can cause confusion, headaches, and fatigue, especially in warmer weather.

4. Nurture Emotional and Mental Wellness

Supporting someone’s emotional and mental health is just as important as their physical wellbeing.

This might include:

• Safe space to express feelings - Talking, drawing, sensory objects, or communication aids

• Routines that provide comfort - Predictability reduces anxiety

• Creative outlets - Music, art, crafts, dance, storytelling

• Sensory activities - Weighted blankets, fidget items, aromatherapy, texture play

• Mental stimulation - Reading, puzzles, quizzes, memory games

Make emotional wellbeing part of the daily routine, not just something to address when challenges arise.

5. Celebrate the Power of Rest

It’s easy to overlook the role of rest in a wellness routine - but it’s essential. Ensuring the person you support has time to wind down helps regulate emotions, energy levels, and behaviour.

Key practices include:

• A relaxing bedtime routine (dim lights, quiet music, calming scents)

• Consistent sleep/wake times

• Reducing overstimulation near bedtime (TV, loud noises, strong lights)

• Midday quiet breaks for those prone to sensory overload or fatigue

Poor sleep can affect mood, memory, and physical health - so make rest as much a priority as activity.

6. Encourage Social Connection

Wellness thrives in community.

Depending on the individual’s personality and needs, this might look like:

• Regular time with family and friends

• Group activities or day services

• Visits to familiar public spaces (parks, libraries, shops)

• Online social time if in-person isn’t possible

• Interactions with pets or therapy animals

Even brief positive social interactions can improve mood and help reduce isolation.

7. Create Space for Choice and Autonomy

Empowering the person you support to make daily choices - even small ones - builds confidence, promotes dignity, and boosts mental wellbeing.

Encourage independence where safe and appropriate:

• Let them choose clothes, meals, or activities

• Use picture boards or communication devices if needed

• Support them to do parts of tasks themselves, even if it takes longer

Remember: autonomy is a powerful part of wellness - and it's worth making space for.

8. Stay Flexible and Reflect Often

Wellness routines need to adapt with time. What works in winter might not work in summer. What feels good during one phase of life might shift during another.

Keep communication open and reflect regularly:

• Is this routine still meeting their needs?

• Are they enjoying these activities?

• Are there signs of boredom, frustration, or anxiety?

  
  

Adjust as needed. A good wellness routine isn’t perfect - it’s responsive.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Creating a wellness routine isn’t about strict schedules or complex goals. It’s about intentionally weaving wellbeing into each day - through movement, connection, nutrition, rest, creativity, and compassion. As a carer or support worker, you have the power to make each of these moments count.

You’re not just supporting someone to live - you’re helping them thrive.