I think the answer from SusanHS was about as accurate as possible since every case will be different. Every step has presented challenges. My wife has been hospice care for about 7 weeks. She is difficult for even the experienced LPNs to deal with. I am trying to learn from them the best way to care for my wife. I have spent years adapting to new situations, new behaviors. I can't get pills in her unless they are crushed and put in her foods. Then I just hope she eats what she is given. If they refuse to eat or drink, wait 15 or 20 minutes and try it again. Don't worry too much if they get mad about something. They will forget they were mad in 5 or 10 minutes. Make them comfortable and let them know they are loved. Just holding their hand can be calming. If they don't respond right away leave and then come back. Just do the best you can. Patience and caring go a long way.

I think you will find that caregiving for a loved one with dementia is a fluid concept, changing each day. The main focus is comfort and safety. Regular meals in a routine can in the earlier days acclimate them. Getting them to cooperate with good hygiene will increasingly be a challenge. My husband became super sensitive to touch, especially if it startled him, and the shower was not pleasant to him, so sponge bathing took over. Medications on a schedule. If your LO sundowns, getting things done in the morning may work better. I guess what I am trying to convey is a routine is helpful for as long as you can maintain it, but you will be challenged in being flexible and adaptable, because the only constant here is change. Important to get yourself taken care of in the mix, as well. Hugs and keep in touch with this group, they are a godsend.

I agree with both of them. Routines help, but true, they will vary. Accept as much help as you can. Take care of yourself as much as you can.
Good luck and stay strong.
Hugs...

So true, routine varies each day. Having help so you can just “go with it” is a blessing.

Agreed. Every situation is different. Consistency and routine help in making things go a little smoother. I think in my situation had I known then wat I have learned along the way I wish I hadn't worried so much and spent more time holding hugging touching and talking to my Mom even though she didn't always understand what I was saying. Hospice does a great job in keeping your loved one comfort as well as being so kind and compassionate to the family. Things will go the way they are intended to go no matter what. As long as your loved one is in a safe place and is getting their needs met whatever they may be each day I say do your best to fullfil your wishes with your family member say the things that need to be said touch and let your loved one know that he/she is not alone and so what you can to take care of yourself you deserve it.Gid Bless You.