How to Brighten Someone’s Day - In the Hospital

 If there is one thing the COVID-19 Pandemic has shown us, it’s the widespread extent of loneliness in the United States. Statistics have shown increasing rates of loneliness. This trend is especially prevalent among older adults. Social media has not done much to reduce the rates of loneliness. The Pandemic of course amplified the isolation of people 1000%. Some people have been trapped in the hospital for months on end. Because they are on isolation they are allowed no visitors. The only people that do come in have their faces completely covered. Loneliness has caused some to give up. But even a short hospital stay of just a few days can intensify feelings of loneliness and depression. 

Here are a few ways you can brighten someone’s day while they are in the hospital:

1) Share a complement. A kind word let’s someone know you care about them. It lets them know you are paying attention to them. It’s not a cure for loneliness, but it can make someone smile, if only for a few moments. 

2) Give a card. A get well card or other thoughtful card can bring joy for several days. While writing letters may be old fashioned in the digital age, a simple card is still appropriate and appreciated. 

3) Give a small gift. A small bunch of flowers, an object or snack from the gift shop, a homemade dish. These small gifts can provide a big impact. They let people know they are being thought of. Gifts are especially effective if you can personalize them. Get something you know the person would like. These can be especially impactful for a patient you know doesn’t have any friends or family to come visit. 

4) Ask how they are doing. Taking the time to listen is extremely important. This is one of the few things that can cure loneliness. You don’t need to spend a long time. But taking 3-5 minutes can make a big difference. 

5) Pray with them. If you think someone may be open to it, offer to pray with them or for them. However, don’t be offended if the decline. If you do pray with them, keep your prayer short. Avoid prayers that are deterministic and absolute. (i.e. “God I know you are going to heal this person”) If it is not God’s will to heal that person, such prayers can turn people away from God. It is best to pray requests rather than statements. Pray that God’s will be done.

6) Smile. I don’t think any more needs to be said.  

By David F. Garner