Pleasing the Invalid

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 13, 1916

Pleasing the Invalid

At some time or other every housekeeper is called upon to act the part of a nurse in caring for some member of the family, and not infrequently it happens that there is an aged person in the home who requires constant care and comfort.

The common sense of the average person pays due attention to the cleanliness, temperature, light, and fresh air of the sickroom, and provides a simple, nourishing diet for the patient; but the little things which add so much to the invalid’s happiness are overlooked many times by the busy caretaker.

By the aid of large safety pins uncomfortable wrinkles may be kept out of the sheets; and O, what a luxury are the big sheets that tuck way under at the bottom, and are long enough to turn over at the top! A small whisk broom to sweep out every little crumb is worth its weight in gold.

Two pillows placed upright side by side, with two more placed horizontally across the front of them, make the best background for the convalescent who is able to sit up in bed, and something to brace the feet against adds greatly to the comfort of such a posture.

A bag large enough for newspapers, magazines, and books, hung at the side of the bed, is very convenient for the reader; and another bag for glasses, handkerchiefs, or other personal belongings is sure to be appreciated.

A policeman’s whistle in place of the usual call bell is heard more readily by the busy one in the kitchen, and requires just as little effort to use on the part of the patient.

Variety in serving the somewhat monotonous menus often tempts the appetite, and makes the food more palatable. A glass of milk placed on a lettuce leaf looks much more refreshing than if it were served in a common white cup, and fruit has twice its flavor when served in an orange shell or basket.

Baked potatoes wrapped in colored tissue paper make a bright spot of color on the tray, and are more easily handled, as the paper protects the fingers.

Small doilies in place of the tray cloth, and dishes of different size and shape, make a pleasing change to the one who is looking forward to mealtime and always hoping for some variation of the plain bill of fare.

Thoughtful, considerate persons will find innumerable ways of helping the shut-in pass weary hours, and will at least have the satisfaction of doing unto others as they would be done by.—Selected.