DESIRES: Support That Works

Breathe Mama, breathe and simplify. “Will they ever live independently?”
(Breathe easy, with the right support, many can!)

Pick and try just one of these ideas. Here are some tailored daily routines for better supporting an adult with FASD, consider the following strategies:

Establish Consistent Schedules

Creating predictable daily and weekly schedules is crucial for individuals with FASD. This provides them with a sense of security and helps them stay on top of tasks and expectations. Key aspects include:

• Setting consistent mealtimes
• Scheduling regular appointments (e.g., doctor visits, counseling sessions)
• Planning routine activities like grocery shopping and cleaning

Daily Structure

• Set consistent wake-up and bedtime schedules
• Plan regular mealtimes
• Incorporate daily hygiene tasks (e.g., brushing teeth, showering)

Weekly Planning

• Use a visual calendar to outline weekly activities
• Schedule recurring appointments or therapy sessions
• Plan for grocery shopping and household chores

Flexible Time Blocks

Instead of rigid hourly schedules, create flexible time blocks for:

• Work or volunteering
• Exercise or physical activity
• Leisure or hobby time
• Social interactions

Adaptable Routines

• Morning routine: Include steps like making the bed, getting dressed, and eating breakfast
• Evening wind-down: Incorporate relaxing activities like reading or listening to music

Technology-Assisted Reminders

• Set smartphone alarms for important tasks or transitions
• Use apps that provide visual schedules or to-do lists

Self-Care Integration

• Schedule regular self-care activities (e.g., mindfulness, relaxation techniques)
• Plan for breaks throughout the day to prevent overwhelm

Social Support Check-ins

• Incorporate regular check-ins with family members or support persons
• Schedule time for support group meetings or social activities

Meal Planning

• Create a weekly meal plan with simple, repeatable options
• Package the pieces for specific meals in separate bags including how to make the meal
• Prepare meals in advance to reduce daily stress

Household Management

• Develop a rotating cleaning schedule for different areas of the home
• Set up a system for organizing bills and important documents

Use Visual Aids and Reminders

Many adults with FASD benefit from visual cues and reminders to help them follow routines:

• Create color-coded charts or calendars
• Write out schedules
• Set up cell phone alarms
• Send reminder texts
• Use visual cues around the home

Break Down Tasks

Simplify complex activities by breaking them into smaller, manageable steps. This helps prevent overwhelming the individual and promotes a sense of accomplishment.

• Consider packaging full outfits into 2 gallon ziplock packages – make sure you have the right socks and underwear. Do not bother putting days of week on – it is more fun to grab the package you want at that moment.

Incorporate Flexibility

While consistency is important, allow for some flexibility in routines to accommodate changing needs and unexpected events.

Promote Independence

Encourage autonomy by involving the individual in creating and maintaining their routines:

• Allow them to choose methods that work best for them (e.g., using technology vs. handwritten schedules)
• Teach life skills in manageable steps
• Celebrate small successes and progress

Create a Supportive Environment

Design a living space that supports the individual’s needs:

• Reduce distractions and background noise
• Provide a calm space for decompression
• Organize belongings in a logical, consistent manner

Incorporate Self-Care

Include activities that promote physical and mental well-being in the daily routine:

• Regular exercise
• Mindfulness or relaxation techniques
• Hobbies or creative pursuits

By implementing these strategies, you can create a supportive daily routine that helps an adult with FASD navigate their day more effectively, reducing stress and promoting independence.