I have often reflected on how I felt during the time I was hospitalized for a long time. From that experience I became committed to visiting others in the hospital. As an elder, deacon and artist I have learned some ways to make the visit to a hospital, nursing home or rehabilitation facility a healing experience. Here are seven suggestions.

1. LISTEN

Take the time to BE PRESENT with the person and LISTEN to their needs. This means leaving your own issues and garbage at the entrance to the facility. Just like a football game or an action packed movie demands total attention the same is true with the person you are visiting. One of the ways you can show your presence is with your body language. Maintain eye contact, (Unless it is culturally inappropriate). Also, try not to look at your watch. Trust me the patient will know if you if your mind is on them or your next appointment.

AVOID asking them the details of their problems. They will usually volunteer that it they feel comfortable with you. So often people visit a person and drill them on their condition. It not only is a private matter but the person often tires of repeating everything to everyone who asks. The exception, of course, may be the senior citizen who may not get many visitors. (Of course that means that more time should be scheduled for the visit or more visits should be made)

2. SERVE

Ask the patient if they need anything such as a drink, etc…. Very often, there may be a shortage of staff to provide the continuous attention needed. You may be walking thru the door at just the right time!

Pay particular attention to how well the person is able to feed them. If assistance is needed-help them. Note that fact and inform others you know who are planning to visit. As a result, future visits can be scheduled around the food serving times.

3. SHORT DEVOTION

Start now gathering short scriptures of encouragement that can be shared whenever you visit someone. You do not have to be a minister to do this. Consider some of the scriptures that have encouraged you in your personal bible study or devotional time.

Don't be judgmental with them. Such as is "God is angry at you because…" Please keep the devotional short. Remember the person may be on strong medicine and need to rest or may not have a long attention span.

4. PRAYER

Ask the person if they would like to have prayer. Here are some suggestions for things to pray about.

For them, the hospital, nursing home or rehabilitation center. Nursing care, wisdom for the doctors, medicines and all the things that might bother them while they are there. The patient will often tell you some of their specific prayer requests. If possible carry a small notebook and record those requests. Let the person know you will be continuing in prayer for them.

5. USE YOUR GIFTS

Can you draw, sing, play an instrument, and make bible stories come alive, or tell stories of encouragement? (Sorry gossip does not count) I often enjoy sharing photos or mini-art prints for the walls of the room.

My wife enjoys singing and sharing stories with humor and encouragement. Find a way to share whatever gifts you have.

6. SHARE RESOURCES

There is often a need for financial resources. If you are able, offer help with the cost of the TV or PHONE if needed. Also, if the patient could benefit from a small radio or CD player to hear music provide it to them.

7. BE "PRAYED UP"

This is probably the most critical thing you should do. Just think about it. How can you shake loose your personal issues and concentrate on the person you are visiting? Pray before you make the visit. Ask the Holy Spirit for His help. So often your perspective will change about the personal stuff you were dealing with before you made that visit. The objective is to leave the person with the knowledge that you care and a positive healing experience.

Thanks for CARING.