Preferences for routines in older people: associations with cognitive and psychological vulnerability

Objectives Although routine activities are important to normal functioning across all phases of life, their expression in older people may be associated with cognitive and psychological vulnerability. Methods The relationship between these variables was explored in 235 elderly French participants from the PAQUID cohort study. Results Cross-sectional positive associations were found between preferences for routines, anxiety and depression levels, and cognitive complaints. General cognitive decline over a three-year time span was also associated with a greater desire for routines at the end of this period. Conclusions The progressive routinization of behaviors and activities in older people is discussed as a marker of affective and cognitive vulnerability, and its understanding has potential for improving the early detection of adaptation difficulties and overall care in this population. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.