TOP5 strategies are practical tips that help staff and support workers understand what matters to the person. These strategies are shared by carers and refined by staff to support care that is safe, respectful and reflects the person’s needs and preferences.
TOP5 strategies can relate to communication, routines, sensory needs, triggers, comfort measures or anything that helps the person feel calm and comfortable.
Why TOP5 strategies matter
TOP5 strategies help:
- improve communication
- reduce distress, confusion or anxiety
- support smoother transitions between services
- ensure consistent care across different staff or settings
- guide responses when the person becomes unsettled
- strengthen partnerships between carers and staff
These strategies are especially helpful for people who have communication difficulties, cognitive impairment, sensory sensitivities, or rely on routine and structure.
Types of strategies you might include
TOP5 strategies can cover a wide range of needs. Common areas include:
Communication
- preferred words or phrases
- pacing or timing
- gestures or visual cues
- how to explain procedures or changes
Routines
- morning or evening preferences
- meal‑time habits
- activities that help the person settle
- steps that support independence
Sensory needs
- noise, lighting or temperature preferences
- touch sensitivity
- preferred environments
- items that provide comfort
Triggers and early warning signs
- situations that cause distress
- behaviours that indicate rising anxiety
- strategies that prevent escalation
Comfort measures
- music, objects or activities that help the person relax
- reassurance techniques
- preferred ways to redirect or calm
Safety and mobility
- mobility aids
- fall risks
- support needed for transfers
- cues that help the person feel secure
Examples of TOP5 strategies
- “Speak slowly and face me when talking.”
- “I need extra time to process information before responding.”
- “I become anxious in noisy environments.”
- “I settle best when familiar music is playing.”
- “I prefer clear, step‑by‑step instructions.”
- “I respond well when given choices rather than directions.”
- “I feel calm when holding my comfort item.”
These examples can be adapted to suit any setting — hospital, residential care, community services, supported accommodation or home.
Creating effective TOP5 strategies
When developing TOP5 strategies, consider:
- What helps the person feel safe and comfortable?
- What causes distress or confusion?
- What routines or habits are important?
- How does the person communicate best?
- What helps prevent escalation or anxiety?
- What do carers know from supporting the person day‑to‑day?
TOP5 should be simple, practical and easy for staff to follow.
Keeping TOP5 up to date
TOP5 can be updated at any time. Review strategies when:
- the person’s needs or preferences change
- behaviours increase or decrease
- new staff or services become involved
- the person moves between care settings
A current TOP5 helps everyone respond in a consistent and supportive way.