Early this summer a good friend was in a hit and run motorcycle accident. They have extensive injuries, requiring a month in critical care and are now in rehab. Between the brace and neck collar to support the broken vertebrae (fortunately the spinal cord wasn’t damaged) many of the things recommended for entertaining patients just aren’t feasible. When you have a hard time leaning over, let alone seeing over a C spine collar (think of it like the Victorian collar they put on pets when they aren’t supposed to lick a wound), options become very limited.
Below is a list of ways to keep a seriously compromised patient from going stir crazy and motivated to heal, beyond the usual recommendations of books, magazines, puzzles, games, journaling, craft and art projects, taking an on-line course etc.
• Inventory what they like doing and see what accommodations can be put in place to help them continue to engage: Things like table top easels can prop up magazines, books and tablets, making it easier for them to read and use electronic devices. If they are inpatients, ask to speak with the recreational therapist or someone in occupational therapy to assist them.
• Tablets and iPhones can be very helpful but they may need to be set up for the person, particularly for voice activation. We’ve had to recruit friends to come and do this as this type of support hasn’t been readily available from the hospital or rehab center for my friend.
• Make schedules so they have things to look forward to: It helps them to know they’ll be having visitors so the more you can coordinate this the better.
• Provide a TV Schedule Letting them know the time, channel and what shows will be airing can give them something to look forward to, and avoids the mindless channel surfing, which leads to frustration.
• Mind body techniques: My friend has benefited considerably from regular Reiki sessions with a volunteer. Check with the facility, if they are inpatients, or look for community resources to help with things like meditation, guided imagery, breathing exercises, biofeedback, relaxation therapy, simple yoga and qigong exercises, music and art therapy, acupuncture, hypnosis, Reiki, aromatherapy, support groups and even cognitive behavioral therapy. Today most hospitals, rehab centers and even nursing homes have integrative medicine programs. Utilize them.
• Be outside: It use to be that hospitals were all built with windows that opened and sun porches, allowing patients to have fresh air every day. Getting patients outside daily can make a world of difference. Even if it’s just a few minutes, particularly if it’s in a garden or other green space, it definitely enhances healing.
• Give them a plant responsibility: Studies have shown that caring for a plant definitely improves well-being. Choose non-toxic, low maintenance plants like succulents.
Check out other ways to help
• How to RespondWhen Someone is Ill or Injured
• When You’reResponsible for Someone Who Has Been Injured or Diagnosed
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