Surviving Hospital Boredom: My favorite tip for staying busy.

One of my favorite boredom busters during my long hospital stay!

STAYING BUSY AT THE HOSPITAL

Alysa Olson

6/27/20242 min read

hospital bed near couch
hospital bed near couch

Introduction: The Struggle of Hospital Boredom

Being stuck in a hospital bed can be incredibly boring, especially when you're there for an extended period. I experienced this firsthand during the pandemic when no visitors were allowed, which made my stay even more challenging. However, I found some effective boredom-busters that helped me get through those long days. Here is my top recommendation.

Streaming Series: Your Best Friend in the Hospital

One of the best ways to pass the time was by watching my favorite TV series. I had an iPad tablet with plenty of storage, and I downloaded entire series to watch, such as Desperate Housewives, 90210, Grace and Frankie, Parenthood, and Friends. This not only kept me entertained but also provided a great way to connect with the nurses. They would sometimes join me for a few minutes, and we would chat about the shows, giving us something fun to talk about besides my medical issues.

Podcasts and Music: Perfect for Relaxation

In addition to TV series, I made sure to have a variety of podcasts and music downloaded. Whether I was in the mood for true crime, comedy, or self-improvement, there was always something interesting to listen to. Music, in particular, was a great way to lift my spirits and relax. Creating different playlists for different moods made my hospital stay a little more bearable.

Books: A Timeless Escape

Never underestimate the power of a good book. I brought along a collection of e-books on my tablet, ranging from thrilling mysteries to heartwarming romances. Reading allowed me to escape into different worlds and forget about my surroundings for a while. It was also a quiet activity that I could do at any time, which was perfect for those late nights when I couldn't sleep.

iPad: A Space Saver

Since an iPad can be a way to watch shows, read books, listen to music, or engage in podcasts, it can serve many functions. That makes it a great space-saver when you're limited on what to pack. I have survived short and long hospital stays with just an iPad to keep me company.

Conclusion: Finding Joy in Small Moments

While being in the hospital is never fun, finding ways to bust the boredom can make a significant difference. Whether it's through watching series, listening to podcasts and music, or diving into a good book, these activities can help you stay entertained and keep your spirits up. Remember, it's the small moments of joy that can make a big impact during tough times.