HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at Orlando, Florida, USA or Virtually from your home or work.

9th Edition of Nursing World Conference

October 27-29, 2025

NWC 2025

Therapeutic activity cart: Mindful moments for hospitalized older adults

Speaker at Nursing Conferences - Donna Fletcher
UT Southwestern Medical Center, United States
Title : Therapeutic activity cart: Mindful moments for hospitalized older adults

Abstract:

The Therapeutic Activity Cart for Elders is a thoughtfully designed tool that offers a variety of engaging activities aimed at addressing the cognitive, emotional, and social needs of hospitalized older adult patients. This activity cart serves as a key component of non-pharmacological interventions and strategies aimed at enhancing patient well-being without the use of medications. Incorporating stimulating activities promotes mental and emotional health, helps redirect patients' focus away from disruptive or negative behaviors, and cultivates a positive, engaging environment during their hospital stay. Particularly those with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer’s or dementia, who often face a range of mental, emotional, and social challenges, as well as physical limitations, cognitive decline, and social isolation. These challenges can significantly impact their overall well-being, making it crucial for healthcare settings to adopt strategies that cater to their unique needs. Providing meaningful activities during their hospital stay is essential for supporting cognitive function, emotional stability, and social engagement.

Biography:

Donna Fletcher earned her bachelor's degree in healthcare administration from Kaplan University in 2014, graduating Cum Laude. She joined UT Southwestern in 2019 as the Senior Geriatric Program Coordinator and NICHE Coordinator. Janice co-authored a 2022 article in Geriatric Nursing Journal on building a geriatric fracture program using NICHE best practices. In 2024, she presented at the Nursing World Conference on the correlation between constipation and delirium. Passionate about improving care for older adults, Donna continues to champion evidence-based, person-centered approaches within the acute care setting.

Watsapp