Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP)
Delirium is a common and significant problem for all elder adults in the hospital, and it doesn't just happen to people with a dementia diagnosis. In fact, hospital delirium and mental confusion can affect up to half of elder patients in a hospital, with one of the biggest risk factors being surgery (post-operative delirium).
Companionship and light activity can reduce delirium in elder hospitalized patients. The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at UnityPoint Health – Meriter is specially designed to provide additional care to older patients.
The Difference we Make Together
Your gift will support the HELP volunteers who assist elder hospital patients. Support includes help with eating and drinking, engaging in quiet conversations about current events or family activities to keep patients oriented to their surroundings, playing card games or doing crossword puzzles together to keep patients' minds active and, when appropriate, encouraging mild activity to keep patients moving.Your support provides funding for the purchase of supplies, such as pocket talkers, reading glasses, music, art supplies, puzzles and other activities to keep older patients active and engaged during their hospitalization.
Gifts to the program also support staff training in the specialized treatment and care of hospitalized elder adults and individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia.