Ethan Rhodes
Being in hospital can be boring and tedious. It is important to keep your brain active and entertained to prevent boredom and keep your mood positive. There are many ways to keep yourself entertained, such as staying connected with friends and family, keeping your brain active by learning something new, meditating, challenging negative thoughts, and keeping yourself equipped with entertainment essentials such as books, games, and podcasts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bring your own reading and writing materials | A magazine, book, or stack of blank paper |
| Stay connected | Keep your phone or laptop near your bed |
| Plan for people to visit at different times throughout the day | Ask friends and family to text before they come so you can manage who comes and when |
| Learn something new | Try learning new hobbies or crafts, such as drawing or knitting |
| Meditate | Meditation can help reduce stress, lower heart rate and blood pressure, and reduce pain |
| Challenge negative thoughts | Examine and rephrase negative thoughts into something more realistic |
| Make a to-do list | Make a list of household things that need to be done, purchased, or repaired |
| Update your medical history | Ensure your medical history is accurate and up to date |
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What You'll Learn
- Keep your brain active with puzzles, online courses or learning a new language
- Bring entertainment: books, magazines, games, podcasts, etc
- Stay connected: keep your phone/laptop close, set up message alerts, and plan visits
- Be productive: make to-do lists, learn new skills, or meditate
- Prepare: pack games, chargers, colouring books, and comfortable clothes
Keep your brain active with puzzles, online courses or learning a new language
Keeping your brain active is an excellent way to stave off boredom during a hospital stay. Puzzles are a great way to do this, as they require logic, intuition, and creativity. Jigsaw puzzles are particularly good as they exercise both the left and right sides of your brain at the same time. Crossword puzzles are another good option, as they help with knowledge retention and verbal skills. If you're looking for something more interactive, chess is a great choice, offering improved memory and cognitive abilities, strategic thinking, and increased attention spans.
If you're looking for something a little different, there are plenty of online courses available that can be taken anywhere, offering an opportunity to learn something new. The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School, for example, offers virtual on-demand courses with Continuing Education credits.
For those looking to take on a bigger challenge, learning a new language is a great way to keep your brain active. Duolingo is a popular language-learning app that can help you get started.
Finally, don't be afraid to mix things up! It's important to vary the games or tasks you take on to ensure your mind stays challenged and doesn't fall into autopilot.
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Bring entertainment: books, magazines, games, podcasts, etc
If you're stuck in a hospital room, bring-your-own entertainment can be a great way to pass the time and keep boredom at bay. Here are some ideas to keep yourself amused:
Books
Whether you're an avid reader or not, a book can be a great way to escape into another world. You could opt for fiction and lose yourself in a story, or go for a non-fiction book to learn something new. If you're not much of a reader, audiobooks are a great alternative. You can listen to them while relaxing or doing other activities.
Magazines
Magazines are a great option if you're looking for something lighter and more entertaining. They can be a fun way to pass the time and keep up to date with your favourite topics and hobbies. From gossip magazines to those dedicated to specific interests, there's something for everyone.
Games
Playing games can be an excellent way to keep boredom at bay and provide mental stimulation. Board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, Backgammon, or card games can be enjoyed with other patients or visitors. If you're flying solo, puzzle books like crosswords, word finds, and Sudoku can keep your mind occupied. You could also bring a portable DVD player and some of your favourite movies to pass the time.
Podcasts
If you're looking for something to listen to, podcasts can be a great option. Whether you're interested in true crime, comedy, or educational content, there's a podcast for everyone. You can listen to your favourite podcasts while resting in bed, providing some entertainment and a sense of normalcy during your hospital stay.
Remember, if you're bringing electronic devices like laptops or tablets, don't forget your charger and an extension cord!
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Stay connected: keep your phone/laptop close, set up message alerts, and plan visits
Staying connected with the outside world is a great way to combat boredom in the hospital. Here are some tips to achieve that:
Keep your phone or laptop close: Having your devices within reach will allow you to stay connected to your loved ones and the outside world. You can use them to communicate with friends and family, access social media, play games, or watch videos. Make sure to bring any necessary chargers as well, so your devices stay powered on.
Set up message alerts: To ensure you don't miss any messages or calls from your loved ones, set up message alerts on your phone or laptop. This way, you'll be notified as soon as someone tries to get in touch, helping you feel more connected and engaged.
Plan visits from friends and family: Check with your hospital about their visiting policies and plan for friends and family to visit at different times throughout the day. This will help break up the monotony of your stay and provide you with social interaction and emotional support. Ask your visitors to text or call before coming so that you can manage the timing and ensure you have the energy to receive guests.
Use online platforms to connect: Take advantage of online platforms and social media to stay connected with your support system. Engage with other patients and caregivers through online communities and forums. For example, the Mayo Clinic offers a free platform where you can connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support, practical information, and answers to your queries.
Stay informed and entertained: Use your devices to access a range of entertainment options and informative content. Listen to podcasts, watch documentaries, or explore new hobbies and interests. You can also use this time to learn something new by enrolling in online courses or trying out new apps. Platforms like Coursera, Lynda, and Codeacademy offer a wide range of educational content, from coding to creative skills, that can keep your mind active and engaged during your hospital stay.
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Be productive: make to-do lists, learn new skills, or meditate
Being in hospital can be boring, but there are ways to be productive and make the most of your time there. One way to do this is by making to-do lists. For example, you can make a list of household tasks that need to be done, purchased, or repaired. You can also use your time in hospital to learn new skills. If you have a smartphone, you can use it to learn how to use functions that you aren't familiar with, organise your emails or photos into folders, or discover new apps.
Alternatively, you can use your time in hospital to meditate. Meditation can help your body relax and control stress. To meditate, find a safe, quiet, and comfortable place. Choose a mantra, which can be a sound, word, or phrase to help focus your attention. For example, you can use a mantra such as "I am at peace" or "Today I will be kind". Breathe in slowly and imagine hearing or thinking about your mantra. Breathe slowly out, and repeat your chosen mantra. You can also try alternating how you say your mantra. For example, say it aloud, then whisper it, then say it in your mind, and so on.
Another way to meditate is to imagine yourself in a peaceful place, such as a beach or a forest. Hear the sounds of the environment, such as birds, waves, or wind. Imagine what the air smells like and how it feels on your skin. Notice all the details, and stay in this imaginary place for as long as you like. You can do this sitting or lying down. Notice how you feel before and after these exercises.
You can also use your time in the hospital to review and update your medical history. Healthcare providers may give you a sheet with your current diagnoses and medications, which you can check for accuracy. You can also ask the receptionist for patient education materials that you can review.
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Prepare: pack games, chargers, colouring books, and comfortable clothes
If you know in advance that you will be spending some time in a hospital, whether for a check-up or a longer stay, preparing a small bag of items to keep you entertained can be a great way to combat boredom. Here are some suggestions for what to pack:
Games
Handheld gaming devices, tablets, and smartphones are ideal for keeping boredom at bay in a hospital setting. They are portable and can be used without needing much physical movement. Games that require minimal physical interaction, such as strategy or role-playing games, are good choices. For example, Fortnite and Among Us are engaging games that can be played on mobile devices, connecting you with other players and keeping your mind active. If you prefer something simpler that doesn't require a screen, Solitaire is a classic game that can be played on a device or with a traditional deck of cards. It improves focus and provides mental stimulation.
Chargers
Make sure to pack chargers for your electronic devices to keep them powered up during your stay. This will ensure that you can continue using your devices without worrying about their batteries running low.
Colouring Books and Drawing Materials
Adult colouring books can be a relaxing activity to pass the time in the hospital. They can help to get your hands and mind busy and provide a quick way to express your creativity. If colouring someone else's designs doesn't appeal to you, consider packing a sketchbook and some drawing tools to create your own art. Doodling can be a fun and liberating way to express yourself and relieve stress.
Comfortable Clothes
Being in a hospital can be a stressful experience, so it's important to feel comfortable in your clothing. Pack clothes that are loose-fitting and made from breathable fabrics. If you're staying in the hospital after surgery, consider adaptive clothing that provides ease of dressing, such as garments with wide openings, minimal seams, and magnetic closures. Slip-resistant socks or slippers are also recommended to prevent accidental slips and falls.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to keep yourself entertained in the hospital. You could bring a book or magazine, your smartphone or tablet, or puzzle and activity books. You could also try meditating, learning something new, or listening to podcasts.
It's important to stay connected with your friends and family while you're in the hospital. Keep your phone or laptop nearby and set up alerts for all types of new messages. You can also ask friends and family to text before they come to visit so that you can manage who comes and when.
It's normal to feel bored, annoyed, or depressed while in the hospital, but there are some things you can do to stay positive. Try to keep your brain active by doing something entertaining or educational. You can also challenge negative thoughts by examining the evidence you have to support them and turning them into something more realistic.
