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The holidays are here and you may be making your list and checking it twice, trying to figure out what to get your loved ones. Buying the perfect gift can be difficult, especially for someone who is taking it easy or bed-bound. Check out these ideas below if you need to find a gift for someone who has just had surgery or is dealing with a chronic health condition:
1) Cozy blankets.
You can’t go wrong with a soft cozy blanket to wrap around yourself and relax (especially if wearing soft PJ’s). Surrounding yourself in comfort dampens the ‘flight or fight’ part of your nervous system and can decrease sensations of pain. Consider a weighted blanket for people who struggle with anxiety or have restless leg syndrome.
2) Soft Pajamas.
As referenced above, soft PJ’s can be very soothing. Look for PJ’s with soft seams and tagless options to reduce skin irritation.
3) Warm, fuzzy socks or slippers.
Warm feet = a warm heart! Look for socks or slippers with non-skid strips or rubber soles to reduce slips!
4) Deliver a warm meal to their home.
Consider options such as a Doordash gift card or online meal and soup delivery companies that will also deliver right to their doorstep.
5) Aromatherapy heating pad/gel cold packs.
The options are endless here. You can order homemade heating pads from Etsy or choose other online retailers for a larger selection. Some gel or clay packs can be used for both hot and cold and may be a better option for someone recovering from surgery.
6) Adult coloring books and colored pencils.
This really is a good, relaxing activity that can distract one’s mind from the pain and discomfort associated with surgery or illness and help create a sense of calm.
7) Humidifier.
Some humidifiers can accommodate essential oil additives and are helpful for people suffering from congestion or headaches. Oftentimes these can double as a white noise machine and both can contribute to improved sleep. Better sleep is directly associated with recovery.
8) Air filter.
Choose a brand that uses HEPA filters to remove small particulates like some viruses. People who have respiratory problems will benefit from cleaner air free of dust and animal dander. Like humidifiers, air filters can also double as a white noise machine and help improve sleep quality.
9) White noise machine for better sleep.
This is a great gift that people may not buy for themselves. As noted above, better sleep will improve recovery times so anything that improves the quality of sleep gets a gold star in our book. Consider a travel size option so they never have to be without it!
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