How Do You Talk To Someone Who Is Sick?
No one wants to see a friend or loved one sick, but it happens. Sometimes it’s short-term and sometime it lasts for years. Sensitivity and patience are very important to communicating with sick people. Here are some tips for trying to keep the conversation comfortable for everyone. Find the time to visit sick people. It makes them feel important and renews their belief in themselves. A person with a serious illness is likely to go through a period of self-hatred, depression and condemnation for something beyond their control. Just walking through the door and saying hello, even for a few minutes, can make a sick person’s day. Call before you stop by, so the sick person can be dressed, cleaned up, or can tell you that they feel too sick and can’t handle company. Calling on the phone also gives the patient something to look forward to. Show up with books, magazines, flowers or even a stuffed animal for a woman or child. Food is not a good idea if the sick person is on a special diet. Paj