Flickr Photo Credit: Joi My Dad uses this one that was doctor recommended as a nutritional method for reducing cholesterol.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Rick I came across this somewhere when researching ideas to use with my husband’s parents, who both were undergoing cancer treatment at the same time.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Nogg3r5 The healing benefits of laughter are well known. If you have a friend, loved one or family member in need of recovery and “mood enhancement”, consider the medicinal gift of humor.

  Flickr Photo Credit: S.C. Bailey The power of human interaction is almost beyond comprehension when it comes to long term recovery or heaven forbid, dealing with a terminal illness.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Furry Scaly With some patients, this may not be appropriate. But for many, it is.

     Flickr Photo Credit: One by Jude     Most of us probably agree that day in and day out of drab walls and linens inhibits anyone’s mood, regardless of whether they are ill or not. Those dealing with a serious disease need their spirits lifted even more.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Woute R. Incorporating the water element into your healing oasis is a powerful aid in establishing the proper attitude for recovery.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Ishrona Lighting elements can also be extremely beneficial to those in a situation of long term healing.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Christiane Michaud While a peaceful rest area is always helpful, there are times when the healing element of sound can be beneficial.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Blue Modern Looking to spruce up a friend’s recovery area? Consider loaning or creating a particular piece of art to be a focal point of the room.

  Flickr Photo Credit: Wili Hybrid     The healing effects of a positive environment have been acknowledged throughout history. Looking for a way to provide a room with an inspirational and healing view?

  Flickr Photo Credit: Sukanto Debnath Regardless of any person’s spiritual beliefs, comforting words from the religious text(s) of their chosen faith, or indigenous proverbs from their particular cultural group can go a long way to providing comfort and the opportunity for reflection during the treatment and recovery periods.

  Flickr Photo Credit: McKay Savage     Looking to pull out all the stops in your efforts to provide long term care? Don’t forget a little jungle love.