interested in
something seldom accomplishes anything, especially if he is so depleted
by illness that the thought of everyday activities suggests only
weariness and pain. A person so weak that he is thoroughly fatigued by
dressing himself should not be expected to view with enthusiasm the
prospect of a full day's work. Much, however, may be accomplished by
providing something that the patient really likes to do, and deliberate
efforts must be made to stimulate his interest in some occupation,
however simple it may be.

Occupations for invalids are more than a means to pass away the time;
they are also of distinct curative value. The patient's interest is not
always easy to arouse, and some ingenuity may be needed in the
beginning; sometimes interest is best aroused by working at some
handicraft in his presence, and finally offering, as a favor, to teach
him to do it also. His interest in any occupation is invariably
increased if a well person not only directs but shares in the work.

Care should be taken to select occupations suited to the patient's
physical condition, to his age, tastes, and mental development. Two or
three occupations are better than one, so that he may change from one to
another before any one becomes tedious. Work requiring fine motions,
close attention, or concentrated thought should be used for short
periods, only, and no work should be continued to the point of fatigue.
The patient should not be allowed to feel that he must finish a certain
amount in a certain time. Even poor work is better than none, and a
patient should always be encouraged by judicious praise.

Games and puzzles are useful to some extent, but an aimless occupation
is not so beneficial as one which has a tangible product, particularly
a product that is useful as well as beautiful. Occupations frequently
possible for invalids and convalescents include knitting, crocheting,
many kinds of needle work, clay modeling, basketry, stenciling, weaving,
book-binding, metal work, and photography. Manuals are now available
giving directions for these and many other handicrafts. Sick children
often enjoy collecting stamps, post marks, and other objects, making
scrap books, sewing, weaving, knitting, paper folding, and various other
kindergarten occupations.

CHRONIC PATIENTS

The whole field of caring for the sick offers nowhere greater
opportunity for fine and finished work than it offers in the case of
chronic invalids. It is an