Bringing Holiday Comfort to Patients of Every Belief

No matter what December holiday a patient observes, Cedars-Sinai helps them honor the traditions that matter the most to them.

Supporting holiday traditions is a vital part of patient care, said Rabbi Jason Weiner, PhD, senior rabbi and director of the Spiritual Care Departmentat Cedars-Sinai.

"Hospitalized patients often feel especially lonely this time of year," said Weiner, a board-certified chaplain. "They may feel they're missing out on time with loved ones and special traditions, or that they're an extra burden on family. The holidays can be a heightened reminder of how upsetting it is to be in the hospital, so we try to help patients celebrate in ways that are meaningful to them."

Given Cedars-Sinai's diverse patient population, the medical center underscores inclusivity year-round through general interfaith support. And during the December holiday season, thoughtful touches help spread holiday happiness.

On the first night of Hanukkah, for example, patients can enjoy a traditional holiday meal featuring minestrone soup, beef brisket and potato latkes, jelly donuts, and a challah roll. Patients also can request an electric menorah.

Those celebrating Christmas receive an afternoon snack of (Santa-approved) milk and cookies, followed by a Christmas Day meal that includes beef brisket, roasted red potatoes and a Linzer cookie. Many patients also put up small trees and decorate their rooms with stockings and garlands.

At Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children's, pediatric patients receive a special visit from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, courtesy of David Marshall, JD, DNP, RN, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Cedars-Sinai, who also happens to be Santa's best friend.

Patients with dietary restrictions receive holiday-appropriate healthy alternatives so they can participate in the spirit of the season.

Kwanzaa and other cultural commemorations also are supported upon patient request.

These simple gestures help patients feel more connected, Weiner said, adding that technology also plays an important role.

"The COVID-19 pandemic led to more of a familiarity with using technology to virtually connect," Weiner said. "More people are using Facetime or Zoom to visit with their loved ones over the holidays, and I often see patients attending virtual religious services from their rooms."

This year, patients can attend special holiday programmingled by Cedars-Sinai or watch the broadcasts on their in-room televisions. On Tuesday, Dec. 16, Weiner will lead a Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony open to staff, visitors and patients. The Spiritual Care Department will host a Christmas Extravaganza on Thursday, Dec. 18, and its chaplains will lead Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.

"We like to get in the holiday spirit to make what is a tough time for patients and families better," Weiner said. "We want people to feel as good as they can at this time of year, and to feel a part of something special."

Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Holidays in the Hospital-Celebrating When a Loved One Is Ill