I have found that knitting is a pleasant activity when visiting someone in the hospital. They have times when they doze off, or are involved with some procedure or something. . .
I spent a LOT of time for 12 years, taking Dad to various appointments. I always brought along my current project. I was surprised at how many people (men and women) would ask me about what I was making and ask to sit by me and watch.
They were either very bored or very interested.
We should all be Craft Ambassadors! :)