While your family member, loved one or partner is in hospital you can encourage them to:

• Have a normal sleep pattern

• Stay awake during the day by opening the curtains to let sunlight in.

• Get out of bed and sit in a chair during the day wherever possible.

• Do daily tasks to take care of themselves, such as going to the bathroom.

• Do mental exercises, such as Sudoku or crossword puzzles.

• Eat and drink when possible and assist them.

• Have their glasses or contact lenses, hearing aids, or both in place.

• Ask their friends to visit, if they can.

• Use a calendar and a clock to remind them of the date and time of day.

• Try not to agree or disagree about any incorrect ideas – it may be real for them.

• Talk about current events or things inside or outside their room.

• Telling them where they are and why they’re in the hospital.

• Reminding them that they’re in a safe place, and their care team is there to take care of them.

• Reading them books or letters.

• Playing them music they like or calming music.

• Showing them family photos and bringing them familiar items from home, such as a favourite blanket or book

You can also support them by:

If you have any concerns about the person you are visiting, don’t hesitate to discuss with the nurse.

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Managing delirium in hospital

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To locate further resources to prepare for a hospital visit, please click on the "Preparing for Hospital Visit" button.