10 Things to Include in a Care Package for a Sick Loved One

The last thing you want for your friends and family is illness. It can be incredibly devastating to know someone you love is going through something so terrible. You may feel completely helpless knowing you can’t make their disease go away, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do.

Your love and support through their illness journey can mean more than you could possibly know. They may not always show it at times, but knowing you’re thinking about them and really care means a great deal.

Through my own experiences and by asking other patients I have come up with a list of practical things you can give to a sick loved one as a care package. Receiving a care package is a really touching experience. Your loved one may be too sick to reach out or make any time for you, but chances are they really want to know you care. A care package is a gesture that says, I’m thinking of you and I love you.

It doesn’t matter what they’re battling – here is a list of practical items that can make up a perfect care package:

1. Photos of good memories

Nothing can put a smile on someone’s face like good memories. Frame the best photos and they can put them up in their room and know they’re loved.

2. A selection of teas

Herbal teas are very relaxing and can do wonders for some symptoms like nausea. Peppermint, lemon grass and ginger are also great options.

3. Fluffy bed socks/slippers

If they’re going to be stuck at home or in the hospital, they’d better be comfy! Cozy socks and slippers are a must for a person with an illness.

4. Candles

Candles give great smells and aromas. They can really brighten up an indoor space that otherwise may have become dark and gloomy.

5. Bath bombs and soaps

A relaxing pamper day may just be what your loved one needs. Face masks and nail polish are also good if that’s their kind of thing.

6. A personalized note or card

They’ll cherish a beautiful handmade card! You could even write a letter and express your support and love for them in detail.

7. A soft scarf or shawl

Nice textures can be really comforting during a hard time. Scarfs can be beautiful to feel and stylish too.

8. Books

What’s better than a good book? Let them get lost in the characters and stories.

9. Coloring books and pencils

These give your loved one something fun to do. It can pass the time very effectively or work as a distraction when waiting for nerve-racking test results and surgeries.

10. Puzzles

Similar to coloring books, puzzles are a fun distraction and a great indoor activity.