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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TRANSCRIPT

You can help your loved one feel more settled while in hospital. Visit often and bring along some of their favourite things from home, such as personal photos, music, or books. Making the environment familiar will remind them of home and help them settle. Offer assistance and help them with eating and drinking, or even taking a walk. Oh, and don't forget to provide their glasses, hearing aids, false teeth, or walking aids. Your loved one may be feeling lost and confused, so remember to be patient, speak calmly and slowly, and help them identify the things around them and why they are in hospital.

Managing delirium in hospital

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