The holidays are a time we are accustomed to seeing people at their happiest. But what if your holiday plans are more low-key this year because someone you love is in the hospital? Is there a way to make this season special even in difficult circumstances?
The answer is YES! There are so many thoughtful, loving ways you can bring cheer to your loved one, even if you can’t be there in person. Gifts that arrive in the mail are especially welcomed, as your loved one may have some downtime while they are in the hospital.
Here is a fun list of thoughtful gifts for you to consider sending to a loved one in the hospital.
1. Comfortable Clothing
Comfortable clothing is a thoughtful and practical gift to bring someone to the hospital. Providing them with cozy slippers, robes, and pants can give them a sense of comfort and familiarity, especially during their recovery. It also allows them to change after visiting their doctor or taking a shower, rather than having to remain in a hospital gown.
The clothing should be loose-fitting and made of soft fabrics, such as cotton. The patient should also have materials suited for their ailments and medical conditions. For example, a diabetic patient could benefit from a breathable cotton t-shirt to improve circulation, while a patient in recovery from a stroke should have garments crafted for physical movement. Unique gifts provide both comfort and dignity for patients in the intensive care unit.
2. Eye Mask and Ear Plugs
Eye masks and ear plugs are an excellent way to provide comfort and relaxation that can make the hospital stay much more pleasant. Not only will it help keep out sound and light, but it also can help block hospital noises and lull a patient to sleep. Not to mention, it also provides great stress relief, which can help the healing process.
Furthermore, bringing these to someone in the hospital is cheaper than bringing a bouquet of flowers or a teddy bear. For a few dollars, you can give the gift of peace and give your friend or family member a chance to find respite in this time of discomfort.
3. Personalized Pillow
A personalized pillow is a thoughtful gift to bring someone to the hospital. It is a reminder to the person receiving the pillow that they are loved, and they are being thought of by the person who gave them the gift. Making it personalized shows the person that they are not just another patient but someone that is special and worthy of extra thoughtfulness.
The pillow can either have a name or a special message or photo of the person the pillow is being gifted to, making it extra meaningful. Even if the person is in the hospital for a prolonged amount of time, the pillow will provide them with comfort, a bit of home, and a reminder of those who care about them.
4. Healthy Snacks
Healthy snacks are a great way to show someone you care. You may choose a basket of seasonal fresh fruit or even a box of dried fruit and nuts as choices they can snack on without making them feel unhealthy. Granola bars, crackers and hummus, and beef jerky are also good to bring; they give a nice mix of nutrients and flavors.
If the patient has a sweet tooth, consider bringing some treats like dark chocolate, sugar-free pudding cups, or sugar-free hard candy. Presenting these snacks in a nice basket or bag will make the gift extra special and thoughtful.
5. Entertainment
Bringing someone to the hospital music, books, or movies they can watch while they pass the time can be a great way to make them feel more comfortable during their stay. Portable speakers, headphones, and tablets with movies and games downloaded on them can provide hours of entertainment and bring a distraction from being in the hospital.
A radio or mp3 player with access to their favorite radio stations or preloaded music can also be an excellent gift idea. Board games or puzzles are great options for fast-paced activities that can be enjoyed by individuals or groups. Bringing a friend or family member to simply pass the time with is also another great way to create a comforting environment while in the hospital.
6. Personal Hygiene Care Items
Consider bringing a basket of travel-size hygiene care items such as shampoo, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, and lotion. These items are helpful for someone who is away from the comfort of their home bathroom. Whether big or small, thoughtfully picking out items is sure to bring a smile to the patient’s face.
7. Coloring Book and Colored Pencils
Bringing a thoughtful gift to someone you care about can help improve their stay in the hospital. One thoughtful gift that would be sure to bring a smile to their face is a coloring book and colored pencils. Not only is this item enjoyable, but it also offers some therapeutic benefits that are important when dealing with a stressful situation such as a hospital stay.
The calming effect of coloring can help to distract them from some of their worries and reduce stress levels. Furthermore, it is something that they can do during their stay, which can help break up the monotony of being in a hospital.
8. Essential Oil Diffuser
When someone you know is in the hospital, a thoughtful gift can brighten their spirits. An essential oil diffuser is a great choice. A diffuser adds calming aromas to any room and is especially welcome in a hospital. It can also improve sleep and reduce stress.
An oil diffuser is typically easy to operate and looks as good as it smells. It’s a great gift for any age group and provides a welcome distraction from the hospital surroundings.
9. Warm Socks
When it comes to thoughtful gifts for a loved one in the hospital, warm socks are a great choice. Not only do warm socks provide comfort for patients who may be cold in their hospital beds, but they also come in a variety of colors and styles that can help to cheer up a patient’s spirits.
Gifts of warm socks can show a patient the love and care that is being sent to them, even from miles away. From fuzzy animal-covered socks to a more classic solid color, warm socks are a great way to give the gift of both practicality and love.
10. Comfort Blanket
When selecting a thoughtful gift for someone in the hospital, the comfort blanket is the perfect choice. This luxurious blanket provides warmth, comfort, and security for those in a hospital bed. The subtly quilted material is soft to the touch, and the luxurious filling has a comforting weight that can help to relax and soothe anxious minds.
11. Water Bottle
Giving someone in the hospital a water bottle can bring them a lot of comfort. Not only is it convenient as patients can stay hydrated on the go, but it also reminds them that someone is thinking of them. Water bottles come in a variety of sizes, designs, and colors so that the person receiving the gift can choose one that stands out the most to them.
The water bottle can serve as a source of encouragement and can make the hospital visit a little more bearable. It’s a thoughtful gift that can make all the difference to someone who is feeling low and sick.
12. Mobile Charger
Having an extra charger means that patients won’t have to worry about running out of battery when they are trying to make calls to family or friends or look up information online. It also allows them to connect with people they care about while they are away from home and rebuild their strength.
Moreover, a charger is handy for listening to music which can be hugely beneficial when it comes to improving their mood and helping them to relax. A mobile charger is a small but powerful gift that shows your thoughtfulness and care.
13. Flowers or Plants
When visiting someone in the hospital, flowers or plants make excellent, thoughtful best gifts. Flowers and plants can help the person who is in the hospital to brighten their day and bring much-needed natural beauty into an environment that can feel sterile and depressing. If it is an option, choosing a hand-crafted, live flower arrangement from a flower shop is a kind and thoughtful gesture.
If the patient is unable to have a real flower arrangement, a bouquet of silk flowers, a small potted plant, or a flowering plant in a decorative container could still bring joy. Plants and flowers provide comfort, color, and encouragement to the recipient and remind them that someone cares.
Thoughtful Gifts For Your Loved Ones
Giving thoughtful gifts to someone staying in the hospital can be a great way to show your support. Make sure to consider the patient’s tastes and situation beforehand. Something helpful like a magazine or book or something special to brighten their day can make a world of difference.
Make sure to share your love and care with those you know in need.
Head back to our blog for more tried-and-true fashion suggestions. You never know when you or someone you love might need fashion advice.
