{"id":7308,"date":"2023-12-05T07:30:13","date_gmt":"2023-12-05T07:30:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/matrixbricks.us\/suncrest\/?p=7308"},"modified":"2024-09-21T10:25:52","modified_gmt":"2024-09-21T10:25:52","slug":"visiting-a-loved-one-in-hospice-care-try-these-fun-activities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/matrixbricks.us\/suncrest\/visiting-a-loved-one-in-hospice-care-try-these-fun-activities\/","title":{"rendered":"Visiting a Loved One in Hospice Care? Try These Fun Activities"},"content":{"rendered":"

Entering<\/span> hospice care<\/span><\/a> doesn\u2019t mean giving up on life. Patients in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, don\u2019t need to stop doing what they enjoy \u2013 in fact, since hospice services offer relief from the symptoms of disease, many people are able to pursue interests and hobbies they previously found pleasurable.<\/span><\/p>\n

With that in mind, if you\u2019re planning to visit a loved one in hospice care, consider how you might make the time spent together more special. Depending on how they\u2019re feeling, one of these activities may help you accomplish that goal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"hospiceGrab a Bite to Eat<\/h2>\n

Dining out at a much-loved restaurant or heading to a local coffee shop can be a pleasurable and relaxing experience. If any friends or family can join you, all the better, as socializing helps foster positive emotions in hospice patients.<\/span><\/p>\n

Head to the Zoo<\/h2>\n

No one is too old to enjoy the zoo, and with a hospice patient, there\u2019s no pressure to follow a specific itinerary. Your loved one can decide which animals to see, and for their comfort, you can rent a wheelchair or scooter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Take in Nature<\/h2>\n

Spending time out in the sunshine, breathing the fresh air, can be soothing to someone in hospice care. Taking a walk through one of the many Philadelphia parks or taking a wheelchair friendly trail might be thoroughly enjoyable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Go for Gardening<\/h2>\n

Many hospice patients find gardening to be both therapeutic and rewarding. If your loved one is able, planting herbs and flowers in pots or in an easily accessible garden bed could be the perfect afternoon activity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Build Something<\/h2>\n

Putting together a model kit, a DIY wooden birdhouse, a 3D puzzle or even a traditional jigsaw puzzle provides a sense of accomplishment. For those in hospice care, this sort of focused activity is often a welcome diversion.<\/span><\/p>\n

Try Cooking or Baking<\/h2>\n

While a hospice patient may not be up to spending a full day in the kitchen, anyone who likes to cook or bake might enjoy a culinary activity. Let your loved one select a recipe, then follow their lead and provide whatever assistance they require.<\/span><\/p>\n

Take a Scenic Drive<\/h2>\n

How long has it been since your loved one took in the local sights? Driving around Philadelphia, viewing the beautiful forestry, historic landmarks and beloved places could make for a fun and memorable journey for a hospice care patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

Attend a Concert<\/h2>\n

If your loved one is like many in hospice care, listening to music is a favorite pastime. A concert might be right up their alley, and to ensure their comfort, you can get tickets with assigned seating or go to a live performance in the park.<\/span><\/p>\n

Visit a Museum<\/h2>\n

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Mutter Museum, The Franklin Institute and several other local exhibition centers are wheelchair accessible. For any hospice patient who enjoys seeing wonders, arranging for a museum trip could be ideal.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reserve a Hotel Room<\/h2>\n

Many local hotels have fantastic amenities, like hot tubs, spas and room service. Book a room, and you\u2019ll be able to enjoy all of those perks to the fullest with your loved one, even if you or the hospice patient decides not to spend the night.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Plan a Craft Project<\/h2>\n

Whether your loved one is an accomplished artist or new to the world of crafting, creating something together \u2013 a scrapbook, perhaps, or a group of paintings — might be fun. Choose the right project, and the activity can be an ongoing one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips for Good Times with Your Loved One<\/h2>\n

Before planning any outing or special activity, check with your loved one\u2019s hospice care team. Chances are, they\u2019ll be happy to offer guidance on ensuring safety and comfort while you enjoy your time together.<\/span><\/p>\n

Speaking with your loved one might be wise, too, as they might not be all that interested in a particular activity after reaching the point of needing hospice care. They may prefer that you plan a different outing or diversion, or if they\u2019re not feeling energetic, simply sitting on the porch, in the backyard or in the house and enjoying a chat might be more appropriate.<\/span><\/p>\n

In any case, when it comes to choosing a fun activity for a loved one in hospice care, keep the following tips in mind:<\/span><\/p>\n