As your loved one moves to a regular floor, the care focus shifts. These are some of the most important areas you can focus:
Your Role as a Recovery Partner
- Observe and report changes to the care team
- Help create a calm, healing environment
- Encourage rest and gentle activity as advised by the care team
- Continue to talk with and orient your loved one (what happened, what’s happening now, what’s happening next)
TIP
It’s a good idea to continue your care journal as you reconnect your loved one with the world. Get started with our guide to care journaling.
Protect Sleep for Healing
Sleep is how our bodies heal. It’s important to actively help encourage good sleep habits.
- Ask nurse to group cares at night to minimize disruptions
- Consider earplugs or eye masks
- Limit daytime naps
- Time medications around sleep
Encourage Safe Movement
- Encourage sitting in a chair daily
- Ask about safe exercise between therapy
- Celebrate small movements!
SAFETY
Always check with the nurse before helping move.
Reconnect with the World
- Offer gentle activities your loved one enjoys
- Try music, cards, crafts, or short visits from friends
- Help create a daily routine
Watch for Thinking Changes
It’s common for people to feel “not quite themselves” after being critically ill. If you notice this:
- Ask doctors what might be causing it
- Discuss ways to help improve mental function
- Find out who to follow up with if issues persist