It can be a difficult time when you have a friend or family member in the hospital. In addition to the obvious health concerns, there will also be a tremendous amount of stress, anxiety and practical issues that make this a challenging time. It can be hard to know how to help someone when they are spending time in the hospital, especially if you find it difficult to visit them. A good friend will always be able to find ways to help no matter how big or small the gesture, and the following are just a few different ways that you will be able to help someone.
- Visiting
Obviously, one of the best things that you can do is to visit the person when you are allowed (but always check ahead before visiting). You should spend this time listening to their concerns and making sure that they are well cared for, but they may also want to take their mind off of their health issues so do not shy away from talking about yourself or what is happening outside of the hospital. Bring gifts, such as:
- Their favorite flowers
- Books, magazines and newspapers
- Any hobby-related gifts that they can do in the hospital such as knitting
- Spa treatments
- Handling Matters At Home
The person in the hospital should be focused purely on their own health and not have to worry about their life outside the hospital. This means that it can be of great help to handle aspects such as notifying their employer and keeping them up to date, picking the kids up from school and looking after them, feeding pets, watering plants, keeping in touch with friends and family, etc. Be sure to ask them if there is anything that you can do to help when you visit.
- Make Sure They Are Getting Proper Care
Most hospitals have excellent levels of care, but they are not infallible, and mistakes can easily be made. It can be difficult when you are a patient and unwell, which is why a good friend needs to make sure that they are getting the care that they need and that there has been no negligence. If there have been mistakes or a lack of care that lead to injuries, then you can make an injuries claim, and they could receive compensation. Making sure that they are getting proper care will involve attending appointments with them, keeping a running log of medication, meals, and checkups.
- Plan For Their Return
A great friend will also think about ways that they can help when the person is discharged. This might involve picking them up from the hospital, tidying the home and preparing it for their recovery, picking up groceries and offering to help with their daily chores until they are back on their feet. Other ways to help them include:
- Stocking up the fridge for them
- Moving furniture (if they agree to it) so that everything is within reach
- Preparing the bedroom
- Helping them settle in
Nobody likes to spend time in the hospital, and it can be upsetting to see a loved one having to spend time there. These are a few ideas for how you can help your friend during their time of need and help to reduce stress so that they can focus on getting better.
Tammie~