The Power of Routine: How Occupational Therapy Helps Adults Build Structure and Independence

Daily planner

For many adults living with disability or mental health challenges, daily routines can feel overwhelming or inconsistent. Whether it’s managing morning tasks, attending appointments, or balancing energy throughout the day, a lack of structure can impact wellbeing, independence, and confidence.

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our occupational therapists work with adults to develop personalised routines that make life more predictable, achievable, and meaningful.

In this blog, we explore why routine matters, who can benefit from routine planning, and how OTs provide practical support to create lasting change.

Why Routine Matters

A well-structured routine helps us:

• Reduce decision fatigue and anxiety

• Stay on top of tasks like hygiene, meals, medications, and budgeting

• Balance energy levels and avoid burnout

• Create stability in times of stress or change

• Improve sleep, mood, and motivation

• Increase independence and reduce reliance on carers or family

When life feels chaotic, establishing routine is often the first step toward regaining control.

Who Can Benefit from Routine Planning?

Occupational therapy for routine building is especially helpful for:

• Adults with ADHD, autism, or executive functioning challenges

• People managing depression, anxiety, or psychosocial disability

• Individuals adjusting to new life stages (e.g. moving out, starting work, or entering supported living)

• People who’ve recently experienced injury or illness and are rebuilding daily function

• Clients looking to increase independence in self-care, work, or community activities

What Routine Planning Involves

Our occupational therapists support clients to:

1. Understand Their Current Habits

We start by mapping out what’s already working—and where the barriers lie. We look at how your day flows, where you get stuck, and what you’d like to improve.

2. Set Personalised Goals

Together, we define what a “good day” looks like for you. Goals might include:

• Getting up and dressed by 9:00am

• Attending therapy or support sessions

• Preparing meals independently

• Limiting screen time or managing tasks in small blocks

• Scheduling rest breaks or movement

3. Create Visual or Digital Schedules

We co-design tools to support your routine, such as:

• Visual planners or whiteboards

• Phone reminders and calendar apps

• Written checklists or task cards

• Activity menus for low-energy days

4. Practice and Adjust in Real Life

We don’t just talk about routines—we trial them together. We problem-solve, simplify, and adapt strategies until they’re realistic and sustainable.

5. Support Motivation and Accountability

We use techniques from motivational interviewing and habit-building science to help routines stick—and provide check-ins to celebrate wins and refine strategies.

How This Is Funded Through the NDIS

Routine planning may be funded under:

• Improved Daily Living (Capacity Building)

• Improved Relationships or Social Participation

• Psychosocial recovery coaching or OT support for executive functioning

Our therapists provide both direct support and written documentation for plan reviews or support team collaboration.

Why Our Clients Love Routine Work

Routine planning helps clients feel:

• Less overwhelmed and more prepared for each day

• More in control of their time, choices, and wellbeing

• Better equipped to pursue education, employment, or community goals

• Proud of their progress, no matter how small the step

Ready to Build a Routine That Works for You?

Whether you want to improve your mornings, manage fatigue, or create more structure in daily life, our occupational therapists are here to help.

Join our waitlist today to book an initial session or planning review with our experienced team.