When a loved one is sick, recuperating from surgery, or dealing with a chronic illness, you want to do what you can to brighten his or her days. Read on for a selection of gift ideas, from the simple thinking-of-you item to products that can help entertain them as they convalesce. All share a common thread — you'll give them in hopes of making them feel a bit better.
Price and availability are subject to change.
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$33 and up from Walmart
Remind someone there are brighter days ahead with this sun-motif, soft-flannel throw. They can wrap up in its lightweight-but-still cozy plush material, whether simply sitting on the couch or taking in a bit of air on a breezy afternoon outdoors. It's available in several sizes.
$12 from Amazon
Sure, jigsaw puzzles were a thing during the pandemic lockdowns, but their enduring appeal means they still make a popular pick. This 1,000-piece puzzle, complete with spirit-lifting elements including succulents, soaring birds, and a calming ocean view, will make this a gift that can be used over time, with visitors or when alone.
$80 and up from Spoonful of Comfort
It might be a cliché, but bringing someone chicken noodle soup when they are under the weather really is a kind gesture. This gift box allows you to send that traditional pick — or other options ranging from garden vegetable to poblano chicken chowder — in a gift presentation that features 64 ounces of soup (four to six generous servings), along with a selection of rolls, cookies, a ladle, and a personalized note. Gluten-free and vegan options are also available.
$8 and up from Amazon
For someone who doesn't like having a fuss made over them, this might be the perfect little gift, as it's both practical and comes in a small package. The award-winning design can be clipped onto any book, is bendable, and is available in multiple colors. It's also a thoughtful gift for those suffering from insomnia.
$12 from Amazon
Being sick can produce, or increase, anxiety in those of any age. For those who are having trouble with stress — anxiously awaiting test results, perhaps — this squeezable little kitten with the sweet, calm face may bring a bit of relief.
$35 from Amazon
For those who have trouble falling asleep during daylight but really need to rest, this sleep-mask option is said to be "the world's comfiest 100-percent blackout sleep mask." It's adjustable to create a personalized fit and features soft and breathable construction to put "zero pressure" on eyelids or lashes. Its kit also includes premium earplugs and a case/wash bag.
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$8 and up from Etsy
Those dealing with a chronic illness cannot be faulted for wondering why things are happening to them. This sweetly illustrated quote from poet Emily Dickinson — "I have been bent and broken, but I hope into a better shape" — just might give someone a mental boost when most needed. From Etsy seller Sincerely Marla, it's available as a digital or paper print in several sizes and suitable for framing.
$17 from Origins
Essential oils of peppermint, basil, and eucalyptus combine in this half-ounce spray bottle said to offer, "soul-soothing, sensory treatment …" Simply spray into the fingers and then massage into the back of the neck, earlobes, or temple for lasting relief. It's vegan and gluten-free, too.
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$20 and up from Etsy
Offer literal words of encouragement no matter what your loved one is facing with this hand-stamped necklace, available in a brushed, hammered, or dimpled finish with the option to personalize further by adding a bead.
$79 from L.L.Bean
Help ease his transition to a slower pace with these comfy, sturdy slippers that take the company's most popular shearling design and adds a sleek "Venetian" style. A durable outsole offers added traction, a comfort if the patient is a bit unsteady. Available in multiple colors and sizes 7-14.
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$19 and up from Amazon
If a sick child at home gets antsy, you can offer up these headphones — available in a variety of color options — to help them concentrate better on their video game, movie, or TV show (or, yes, school lessons). Padded soft cushions make them a good choice for the younger set, while they are notable for being compatible with most devices.
$45 from HoMedics
Anyone having trouble falling asleep — from worry, perhaps — can hopefully rest easier with this therapeutic sound machine. A portable, rechargeable unit, it offers up to 12 hours of white, brown, or pink noise, or nature sounds of thunderstorm or rain.
$49 from Kohl's
Those who are ill may be more prone to chills. Help your favorite ailing fella out with this classic-fit Supima cotton sweater. Its V-neck style with buttons offers easy-on/off use, and it comes in several colors and sizes small through XXL.
$30 from Staples
Whether the person under the weather is trying to get a bit of work done from bed or simply write a letter or read a magazine, this lap desk features a wood-inspired surface and decorative pillow design in a white-and-turquoise pattern. The desk also features a slot for a cell phone to allow hands-free video chatting, too.
$16 from Amazon
Kids, teens, and adults alike can have a moment of escape (and improve memory skills) with this handheld brain teaser memory game. A portable gift, it can help pass the time at home or while waiting in a doctor's office or receiving treatment. More than 4,000 customer reviews give it 4.4 stars.
$15 from Natural Life
Keeping a phone by the bed or couch is not only convenient but also can be a safety measure when someone is ill. This decorative wooden phone stand, available in "Folk Flower" or "Spread Kindness" designs, adds a sweet touch to anyone's surroundings while also allowing the phone to be charged when in use.
$40 from Wayfair
It's always nice to receive flowers when you're sick, but sometimes the care of them — or the ongoing care of a plant — can be draining. Skip any maintenance with this 23-inch freestanding faux tree that not only features bendable branches and bright flower blooms but can also light up for a warm dose of comfort when desired.
$70 and up from Harry & David
They say chocolate makes everything better. Test that theory by giving this bonanza of a gift to someone who's feeling poorly. This delicious pick-me-up features chocolate-covered popcorn, cake, mints, malt balls, truffles, and more, all presented in, yes, an actual chest crafted out of wood and pleather.
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$100 from Ulta Beauty
For someone who's missing her regular trips to the salon for a manicure — always a bit of a mental boost — this at-home kit offers quite a luxurious alternative. Designed to help create a gel manicure at home, it features a LED Light with power adapter and nail gel polish, along with primers, top coat, cuticle oil, polish remover, nail wipes, and more, all housed in a case that any makeup artist would covet.
$30 from Amazon
Someone who's temporarily sidelined may find it the perfect time to take up a hobby. For those who are artistically inclined, this kit offers the tools to do just that with a collection of soft pastels, colored pencils, sketching pencils and charcoals, blending stumps, a 4.5-inch mannequin, erasers, sharpeners, and more, all packed in a stylish wooden box ideal for storage. Add a sketchpad and let the artistic juices fly.
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$50 from Bed Bath & Beyond
A traditional sleeping pillow turned end to end might allow someone to sit up in bed, but it's not an ideal solution for any length of time. This sturdy backrest, available in a handful of colors, is designed to support the head, neck, and back while reading or watching TV from bed. There's even a pocket to store a cell phone or remote control.
$22 from Amazon
Those with mobility issues who need a drink of water during the night — or day, for that matter — may very well delight in this handy solution. This gift features a cup and bottle in cut crystal.
$50 from Uncommon Goods
Yes, there may be comfort in cozying up in a well-worn robe when you're sick. But for those with an eye on fashion no matter how they're feeling, this lavishly designed robe will certainly make them feel spoiled. A luxe spin on loungewear with a sustainable approach to boot, this cotton robe is created with an array of richly patterned strips of repurposed saris. Handmade by an artisan cooperative in India.
$12 and up from Amazon
Navigating a serious illness is no easy task. Help with the transition through this paperback book by Toni Bernhard, who shares her firsthand experiences in a guide designed to be life-affirming and instructive while also inspiring. Available in Kindle, audiobook, and paperback.
$29 and up from Amazon
Like a snow globe, these sandscapes offer the viewer an escape, however brief, into another world. The peaceful view can sit as a constant at one's bedside or offer a few interactive moments by moving the sands gently about. Available in two sizes (7 or 12 inches) and many designs.
$25 and up from Uncommon Goods
For another spin on a welcome distraction, opt for this gift created by veteran German puzzle maker Jean Claude Constantin. These laser-cut designs feature "intricate mechanics that make them truly unique and a joy to own." The player moves the ball through the laser-cut mazes that feature tiers, corridors, gears, and more in one of five hand-held design options.
$37 from Amazon
Never worry about a hot drink getting cold or vice-versa, especially when no one's nearby to help with a refill. This 14-ounce stainless steel mug, complete with lid, features double-wall vacuum insulation that maintains a beverage's temperature while also featuring a "no-sweat" design to keep the exterior dry.
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$13 from Amazon
Sometimes those who are ill feel like the world is moving on without them. This book by M.H. Clark, which you create by filling in the blanks before presenting, reminds someone you love that they are indeed special and that their getting well is important.
$14 from Amazon
This sweet little hand bell — available in silver and gold — is ideal for the bedside, allowing whoever's feeling poorly an easy way to call someone to his or her side.
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$13 from Amazon
Whether this engraved stainless steel spoon is used for that proverbial chicken soup, a soothing bowl of ice cream, or simply a dose of real medicine, your support is given every time this 7-inch teaspoon is in play.
$28 from Amazon
Curling up with a classic film can be a perfect way to spend an under-the-weather afternoon. But sometimes, the choices are limited to what you know (and have seen countless times). Give this book, a curated collection of 1,000 movie reviews, lists, sidebars, and more, to spark the imagination and encourage a deeper dive into the world of cinema.
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$33 from The Tea Can Company
Encourage a moment of comfort with this gift set that features three of this specialty company's "smoothest blends," ideal for sipping from morning through evening. Tall tins feature a dozen signature pyramid sachets in vanilla chai black tea, elderberry herbal tea, and jasmine vine green tea along with a bookmark and flavor card.
$65 and up from Vermont Teddy Bear
Sometimes someone who is sick simply needs a hug for security. They can hug away with this classic made-in-America teddy bear that indulges their inner child. Sporting a smiley-face top, the bear can be customized from eye color to fur color along with add-ons such as a display stand or hospital bracelet.
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$22 from Amazon
A night-light offers a beacon of comfort — and safety — during the evening and overnights. This night-light — available in several colors — offers a stylish alternative to others. It's a battery-powered model designed to add a bit of a magical touch to any setting, from the bedroom to den. For an even more personal gift, check out this version ($30) which can be customized with photos.
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