Hailey Tran
Being in the hospital can be a stressful and monotonous experience, especially if you're facing a long stay. It's normal to feel nervous about being away from home and your daily responsibilities, not to mention concerns about your health and recovery. However, there are numerous ways to keep yourself occupied and make your time in the hospital more enjoyable and comfortable. From bringing your own entertainment like books and puzzles to connecting with others through conversation or online communities, there are plenty of options to keep boredom at bay. With a bit of creativity and some fun ideas, you can make the most of your time in the hospital and even speed up your healing process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bring your own pillow | Maximises comfort while sleeping |
| Wear your own clothes | Makes you feel less like a patient |
| Decorate your space with pictures of loved ones | Brighten up your room |
| Bring entertainment | Puzzles, books, tablets, crafts, etc. |
| Connect with others | Face-to-face or online |
| Write letters | To family or friends |
| Take a nap | Let the receptionist know so you don't miss your appointment |
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What You'll Learn
- Bring your own entertainment, such as books, puzzles, crafts, and games
- Connect with others through conversation, online communities, or card and letter writing
- Make the most of hospital amenities like television and WiFi
- Personalise your space with familiar items and mementos
- Take a walk or a nap to pass the time
Bring your own entertainment, such as books, puzzles, crafts, and games
Staying in a hospital can be monotonous and boring, with time passing sluggishly. To combat this, you can bring your own entertainment, such as books, puzzles, crafts, and games.
Books
If you are an avid reader, bring a book or two to read during your downtime. This can be a great way to pass the time and keep yourself entertained. If you are immunosuppressed, bringing your own reading material can also help prevent infection from pathogens that may be present on shared reading materials in the hospital.
Puzzles
Puzzles can be a fun and engaging way to keep your mind active during a hospital stay. Bring some paper and pen to solve crossword puzzles or sudoku, or even create your own puzzles for others to solve.
Crafts
Consider bringing some crafts or hobbies to work on during your hospital stay. This could include knitting, crocheting, colouring, or any other creative pursuit that interests you. Crafts can provide a sense of accomplishment and help pass the time in a enjoyable and productive way.
Games
Playing games can be a great way to socialise and connect with others during your hospital stay. Bring some board games, card games, or even video games to play with family, friends, or other patients. If you are feeling creative, you could even invent your own game or scavenger hunt to play with others.
Bringing your own entertainment to the hospital can make your stay more enjoyable and help pass the time in a fun and meaningful way.
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Connect with others through conversation, online communities, or card and letter writing
Connecting with others is a great way to keep busy during a hospital stay. This can be done through conversation, online communities, or card and letter writing.
Face-to-face interaction can be a great way to connect with others during a hospital stay. You can talk to anyone who passes by or who you encounter regularly, such as nurses. Making eye contact and actively listening are important ways to connect with others and show them that you are giving them your full attention. If you are able, you can also take a stroll down the hospital halls and visit the nurses' station, which can provide an opportunity to connect with others and get some light exercise.
Online communities and apps can also help you connect with others while in the hospital. For example, you can connect with others going through similar experiences on websites like I Had Cancer (IHC). There are also apps, such as Familonet, that allow you to create groups and connect with others going through similar journeys. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can also provide opportunities to connect with others and share your experiences.
Card and letter writing can be another way to connect with others while in the hospital. You can write letters to family and friends to update them on your progress and let them know you are thinking of them. If you are in the hospital for an extended period, you may also receive letters from loved ones, which can provide a source of comfort and connection.
Connecting with others through conversation, online communities, or card and letter writing can help make your hospital stay more bearable and provide a sense of community and support during a challenging time.
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Make the most of hospital amenities like television and WiFi
Staying in the hospital for an extended period can be monotonous and boring. Here are some tips to make the most of the amenities available, such as television and WiFi:
If you're staying in a hospital with a television, you can watch a variety of shows and movies to pass the time. Many hospitals offer access to streaming services or cable TV, allowing patients to choose from a wide range of entertainment options. If you find yourself getting bored with television, you can try streaming videos online using the hospital's WiFi.
Take advantage of the hospital's WiFi to stay connected with your loved ones. Use video calling applications like Skype or Zoom to have face-to-face conversations with your family and friends. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness during your stay. You can also use social media platforms to share your experiences and connect with others going through similar situations.
If you're feeling up to it, use the WiFi to explore and learn something new. Online communities and forums can be a great way to connect with people who share similar interests or experiences. You can also use the internet to research topics that interest you or catch up on any online reading or writing you've been meaning to do.
If you're sharing a room with someone, coordinating television usage can be tricky. Respect your roommate's preferences and establish a schedule that works for both of you. This may involve taking turns choosing what to watch or agreeing on specific times when you can enjoy your preferred programs without disturbing others.
Remember to be mindful of your health and energy levels while engaging with these amenities. Take breaks and prioritize rest when needed. It's important to maintain a healthy balance between staying busy and allowing your body to heal.
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Personalise your space with familiar items and mementos
Staying in the hospital can be a stressful time, and it is understandable to feel nervous about being away from home for an extended period. However, there are ways to make your hospital stay more comfortable and less boring. One way to do this is to personalise your space with familiar items and mementos. Here are some ideas to make your hospital room feel more like home:
Bring your own pillow and blanket: Your own pillow will ensure maximum comfort while you sleep. A blanket or quilt can also make you feel at home and provide extra warmth, as hospital rooms tend to be chilly.
Decorate your space with pictures and mementos: Surround yourself with pictures of your loved ones and other mementos that bring positive feelings. You can tape hand-drawn pictures, posters, or other decorations to the walls. If you're on the window side, consider taping a paper "valance" at the top of the window to add a cute, personal touch.
Wear your own clothes: Hospital gowns can make you feel like a patient. Bring your own lounge clothes or pyjamas to make you feel more comfortable and like yourself. A sweater or hoodie will keep you warm, and don't forget comfortable footwear like flip-flops or non-skid slippers.
Bring your toiletries: Having your own toiletries can make your hygiene routine feel more familiar. Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you usually use.
Connect with others: Hospital stays can be monotonous, but they also present an opportunity to connect with others. Talk to the people you encounter, whether it's face-to-face or online. Join online communities to connect with others going through similar experiences.
Personalising your space in the hospital can help you feel more comfortable and settled during your stay. It can be a way to make the space feel like your own, even if it's just for a short while.
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Take a walk or a nap to pass the time
Taking a walk is a great way to pass the time in the hospital, and it doesn't have to be a long walk to be beneficial. If you're able, take a stroll down the hospital halls, perhaps visiting the nurses' station or a garden area, and take in the change of scenery. If you have children with you, let them lead the way and turn it into a game. Walking is a good way to get some fresh air and can help you feel less isolated. It can also be an opportunity to meet people and connect with others, whether that's face-to-face or online. You could even take a walk with a purpose, such as to post a letter or run an errand.
If you're feeling tired, then a nap is a good way to pass the time and make sure you're getting enough rest. Bringing your own pillow and a blanket or quilt from home can make you feel more comfortable and ensure a good night's sleep. Decorating your space with pictures of loved ones or other mementos may also help you rest easier.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some suggestions to keep yourself entertained during a long hospital stay:
- Bring puzzles, paper, pen, books, a tablet, and a charger.
- Bring crafts and hobbies such as knitting, crocheting, colouring, board games, playing cards, and creative writing.
- Take a stroll down the hospital halls and talk to the people you encounter.
- Make giant get-well cards for other people in the hospital.
To make yourself comfortable during a hospital stay, bring your own pillow, blanket, and clothes. Decorate your space with pictures of loved ones or other mementos.
If you are waiting for an appointment, you can write a letter, take a nap, or make a to-do list. You can also learn how to use functions on your smartphone that you are not familiar with.
If you are unable to move around during your hospital stay, you can watch television or connect with others online.
