The Pension Day Routine

Mr Iyer, 70, retired from a bank in Coimbatore, lost his routine when work ended. He wakes at odd hours, watches television most of the day, and rarely meets friends. His appetite is poor and his knees ache so he avoids …

Mr Iyer, 70, retired from a bank in Coimbatore, lost his routine when work ended. He wakes at odd hours, watches television most of the day, and rarely meets friends. His appetite is poor and his knees ache so he avoids walking.

His granddaughter suggests a gentle plan. In the morning, tea with the family and a short walk to the temple or park, as far as his knees allow. A proper midday meal, a rest, and then something with his hands, such as gardening or a crossword. In the evening, a phone call to an old friend or a visit to the community hall.

Once a week he joins a bhajan group and on Sundays the family eats together. He keeps medicines in a pillbox and sees his doctor regularly.

A cold week breaks the pattern, and he feels low again. His granddaughter reminds him that disruption is normal and they restart with one small thing, a short walk. Over weeks he feels more alive, sleeping better and talking more. When he says he still feels empty and hopeless on many days, the family takes him to the doctor, because routine helps but is not always enough. His friends, surprised by his phone calls, begin ringing him first. The family notices that he hums while watering the plants again.

How to recognise it

• Loss of structure after retirement.

• Poor appetite, irregular sleep, little activity.

• Spending most of the day alone or in front of a screen.

• Low mood and low energy continuing.

• Improvement when daily habits are regular.

What this story explains

A routine adapted for older adults keeps body, mind and company active. Handling disruption and knowing when routine is not enough are part of the plan.

Probable root causes

• Retirement and loss of role.

• Physical pain or limited mobility.

• Loneliness.

• Poor sleep and appetite.

What to do

1. Keep fixed meal, sleep and wake times.

2. Do gentle activity suited to your health.

3. Plan a social contact each day.

4. Use a pillbox and keep regular check-ups.

5. Restart with one small step after a disruption.

6. See a doctor if low mood, hopelessness or memory problems persist.

Whom to consult

• Family doctor for health and medicine review.

• Physiotherapist for safe movement.

• Psychiatrist or counsellor if sadness or hopelessness continues.

Do and don’t

How to behave and communicate

• Speak respectfully: "Thatha, shall we walk together?"

• Listen to his memories.

• Offer choices.

• Celebrate small steps.