Introducing Joy as a Key Element in Enhancing Adult Patient Experience

The traditional healthcare model often overlooks the emotional well-being of adult patients, unlike pediatric hospitals where comfort and emotional support are integral to healing. In pediatric settings, therapies like music, pet visits, interactive activities, and calming environments are standard parts of care, aimed at reducing stress and promoting recovery. However, these approaches are frequently absent in adult inpatient care.

A recent commentary authored by Dr. Leonard Berry from Texas A&M University emphasizes the importance of incorporating joy and emotional connection into adult healthcare. Berry advocates that adults, just like children, benefit from thoughtful attention to their emotional needs. "Fear, boredom, and anxiety do not simply vanish with age; they tend to be ignored more often in adult care routines," he explains.

The article, published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Innovations, Quality & Outcomes, explores how pediatric practices can inspire meaningful improvements in adult inpatient care. For example, at Mount Sinai Hospital, programs like KidZone Television enable children to engage with live shows from their rooms, while child life specialists and music therapists provide bedside support, which has been shown to reduce pain, anxiety, and speed up recovery.

Berry suggests adapting such ideas for adult patients through activities like cooking demonstrations, film clubs, and guided outdoor walks — simple, cost-effective strategies to foster joy and connection. Hospitals like New York Presbyterian already employ licensed creative arts specialists who facilitate music therapy and songwriting, demonstrating the potential of these approaches to enrich the patient experience.

Family involvement is another critical aspect borrowed from pediatric care. In children’s hospitals, family members often participate actively in comfort and support. In adult care, encouraging family presence and involvement in treatment discussions can significantly enhance outcomes. Furthermore, designing patient spaces with warm lighting, nature-themed decor, and interactive art can create calming environments. An often overlooked yet impactful change is including a chair for clinicians to sit during patient interactions, which makes healthcare providers appear more caring and attentive.

Improving comfort and engagement in hospitals not only enhances patient satisfaction but can also lead to shorter stays and better clinical results. For example, pet therapy has been linked to reduced delirium and quicker recovery. Dr. Berry emphasizes that joy in healthcare is not a distraction but a powerful tool to combat fear, anxiety, and discomfort.

In conclusion, by integrating joyful, human-centered strategies inspired by pediatric care, adult hospitals can significantly elevate the healing environment, making it more compassionate, connected, and effective.

*Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-ingredient-adult-patient-joy.html