My customer bought me a gift certificate for spa services when I had major surgery in December.
I had a full body massage!
They do house calls too... and it doubles as healing therapy too!

I am going to get his wife (my sil) a gift certificate to a local day spa. It's important that the care givers get pampering also.

My suggestions are based on "ifs"...

If he will be in the hospital for an extended stay, and IF he likes animals, check out if the hospital has a pet therapy/visitation group.

As a therapist I have particpated in such programs. I know in particluar that after eye surgery, when the bandages are still on, or the vision is not quite up to snuff, the tactial stimulation of stroking or petting an animal can lower stress levels.

Wishing him all the best.

If he cannot read, maybe some books on tape ? And I know they frown on alot of stuff like this in hospitals, but in considering stimulating and relaxing other senses, like smell, I was trying to think of some ideas besides just candles that may soothe...We have a pillow that had lavender sewn into it so you can smell it when you have you head on it and it's lovely...

buckeyemom, if your dear brother normally likes to read books the idea that Wednesday had regarding the books on tapes is a real good one.

We had a family member that could not read properly for several months and he said the books on tapes were a real mental lifesaver.

Best wishes to your brother. He and your SIL are fortunate to have you in their lives.