8 Gift Ideas for a Loved One Experiencing a Crohn's Disease Flare-Up

If you are a caregiver or a loved one of a Crohn’s patient, chances are you’ve probably had a tough time coming up with get well, birthday and Christmas presents.  I’ve had my husband and friends run into similar situations as well.

Speaking from experience, I love to receive anything that keeps me laughing, helps with flare-ups, or keeps me busy from thinking about how lousy I’m feeling.

These are some gift-giving suggestions that are sure to put a smile on any “Crohnie’s” face.

1.  Streaming service.

When flare-ups hit, people with Crohn’s tend to spend time in bed resting.  You can hook them up with a streaming service they don’t already have or renew their current streaming provider of choice.

2.  Heating pad.

IBD can cause arthritis, back spasms,  abdominal pain, and cramping. You can help ease the discomfort by giving a heating pad with several levels that can be adjusted to a comfortable setting.

 

3. Weighted blanket.

Cover your “Crohnie” with a weighted blanket that simulates being hugged. It helps with getting to sleep quicker due to boosting serotonin and melatonin levels while lowering cortisol.

4. Loungewear.

Since some “Crohnies” are home most of the time, they’ll get more use out of a set of comfy pajamas/loungewear and lavender-infused socks to relax in.

 

5. Create a home spa. 

Pair Epsom salt with a scented candle, body lotion and a face mask for the ultimate spa experience. When the salt is poured into warm water, magnesium and sulfate are released to help relax muscles.

6. Comedy.   

For laughs, purchase a few comedian DVDs such as George Carlin, Carrot Top, Gabriel Iglesias, Robin Williams, Jeff Dunham, Eddie Murphy, or Tyler Perry.

7.  Gift bag.

Make up a gift bag with tissue paper containing a large weekly pill box, a pill cutter/crusher, a collapsible cup used to take medication when on vacation, hand sanitizer, coloring books for adults, colored pencils, and an Amazon gift card to buy or download books onto a Kindle.

8. Humor basket.

Create a “humor basket” that contains Groucho Marx glasses, novelty toys such as a light-up top, a slinky and a yo-yo. Also include a small box of Legos, a funny Crohn’s shirt, and a DVD of “Toy Story” or “Monsters Inc.”

Having Crohn’s disease can be challenging at times, especially when flaring up. Family and friends can help their loved ones feel better with items that promote wellness, laughter and stress relief. You’d be amazed at how something so simple can make a big difference to promote healing.