Hospital Elder Life Program

The Hospital Elder Life Program
The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) was developed to reduce the number of elders that develop delirium during a hospital stay. This is a program that is completed entirely by volunteers who visit patients up to three times a day. I am currently completing my practicum for my master's degree as an Elder Life Specialist (ELS) at a hospital. My primary role in this program is to determine what therapeutic activities would benefit the patient along with informing the patient and family of the resources.

What is Delirium?
Delirium is the sudden onset of confusion. There are five risk factors that are associated with delirium including the following: cognitive impairment, vision or hearing impairment, immobilization,  multiple medications, dehydration, and sleep deprivation. There are also certain ailments that are more likely to cause delirium.

The symptoms of delirium can include a number of things that may be considered frightening. It may include odd and frightening dreams, seeing things that are not there, having strange beliefs (such as that you are being caged or that people are trying to hurt you), making unusual comments, making unusual movements (such as picking at clothing), not recognizing familiar people, along with agitation and mood swings. While this may be frightening when a loved one is experience it is important to realize that it is treatable. In addition to this is can be prevented by keeping the mind active, staying hydrated, and keeping a consistent sleep schedule.

What is the impact of Delirium?
Delirium has a large financial impact on the patients that develop it during their hospital stay. It can increase hospital stays up to ten days and increasing costs with post-hospital treatments. In addition to this, patients that develop delirium are more like to be readmitted to the hospital. With the increased costs, this is a problem that has taken a toll on the medicare system.


What can be done?
If you have a relative over the age of sixty-five that is in the hospital or someone that is in the intensive care unit it is important to provide them with activities that will keep their mind active during their stay at the hospital. This can include books, magazines, puzzles, newspapers, and other activities. Visiting your relatives in the hospital is also an important thing to do as it provides you the opportunity to orientate them to the date, time, and situation. This can be done by using a newspaper or through conversation around topics such as weather, school, and other activities related to the season.

Disclaimer: While I do have experience volunteering in a help program, I am not an expert in this area nor did I develop this program. Please see the website for additional information. If you are concerned about a relative please consult the medical doctor or a social worker at the hospital.

Resources
The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP)