Here are some activities to help keep the brain active and calm. They offer gentle ways to reduce confusion, support relaxation, and create moments of comfort for people experiencing delirium and for those around them.
Mind Care
Music
Relax with Music 🎵
Music is a simple way to help calm and connect with someone experiencing delirium.
Try playing music they enjoy; familiar favourites from their past can be especially comforting. Use it during quiet times, or when they seem unsettled, to help reduce stress for both of you.
Reference –
McCaffrey, R., & Locsin, R. (2004). The effect of music listening on acute confusion and delirium in elders undergoing elective hip and knee surgery. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 13(6B), 91–96. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2702.2004.01048.x
Reorientation
Keep the brain focused.
Gently remind the person of the time, date, and where they are. This is called reorientation, and it helps keep the brain active.
Doing this once every hour during the day is a simple yet powerful habit. It may lower the risk of delirium by up to 50%.
Sleep
Make good sleep easy.
Getting enough rest at night helps the brain recover. Good sleep can be harder to get with age; falling asleep and staying asleep may become more difficult.
Earplugs and an eye mask can help block out noise and light, making it easier to fall and stay asleep, and may help reduce the risk of delirium.
Tips and tricks for a good night rest
Avoid naps and stay awake during the day
Recovering from surgery is tiring. Try to stay awake as much as you can during the day, so it is easier to sleep at night. It is okay to take short power naps, just set an alarm so you do not sleep too long.
Ask your healthcare team about medication timing
Some medications need to be taken at night. You can ask your healthcare team to group these medications together so you can sleep longer during the nighttime hours.
Try to get in some physical activity
Even a short walk, or leaning forward and back in your bed, can help tire your body out. Just avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as it can leave you too alert to fall asleep.
Managing discomfort
Pain or soreness can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. Ask your healthcare team about pain relief options if you are struggling with this.
In hospital
Earplugs or headphones
Hospitals can be noisy at night. Earplugs help block out the noise from machines and hallways. Listening to soothing music may also help you sleep by blocking out the noise.
Face-cover or mask
Hospital rooms can be bright. An eye mask can help you block out light and relax and sleep.
A comfy pillow or blanket from home
Something familiar can help you feel more at ease and sleep better. A pillow, stuffed animal, or neck pillow is fine to bring with you. Just keep an eye on your things - hospitals are busy, and items can easily get lost, especially when your room is being cleaned.
Physical Activity
Any type of movement helps keep your body and brain active and can lower the risk of delirium. Download PDF
Do these exercises at your own pace, and only if it feels safe for you. It's a good idea to check with your healthcare team before trying them.
Reduce Pain and Discomfort
Distraction can help more than you'd think
Distracting your brain can actually help with recovery. It can ease discomfort and stress while also helping to keep your mind focused.
Deep Breathing
A simple technique to help your brain and body recover.
Deep breathing practice can help you manage pain and anxiety.
Clearer Days Delirium Support
Disclaimer
The information on this website is educational only and not medical advice.
© 2026. All rights reserved.
First Nations Australian Resources
LGBTQI+ Resources
Acknowledgement of Country
Clearer Days Delirium Support acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands around Australia where it was developed and pay our respects to Elders past and present.