With the holiday season approaching, we can’t help but think about giving gifts and receiving gifts. Some people are hard to shop for, especially friends and family that live with a chronic illness.
Gifts to avoid
Some common “go-to” gifts for the holiday season like sweets, a bottle of wine, or cologne and perfume can actually trigger a flare up in someone living with chronic illness. A few other gifts to avoid would be anything that requires maintenance (like a pet or a plant), any heavy item, or an exercise related item. Although some of these may be okay depending on their chronic condition, it is always better to air on the side of caution and get something that will help to improve their symptoms and get them through their flare-ups.
10 Great Gift Ideas
This is a great gift idea to help warm up those who tend to run cold, or love to stay warm for a good nap!
Although this option is on the pricier side, this is a luxurious gift that will make them feel like they are living at the spa. These robes are incredibly soft, winning it a spot on “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list for 2021.
3. Heating Pads
This gift is a “must-have” and will never go unused in their house! This heating pad specifically features a magnetic closure and waist strap so it stays secured (comfortably) on their body. It has multiple settings and includes an automatic shut off just in case they doze off while enjoying it!
Hydro flask water bottles are great to help them stay hydrated, and can keep their water ice cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, and can also be personalized to add a more meaningful touch to the gift.
5. Fitbit
A Fitbit is not only great for exercise, but can track important metrics for those suffering from chronic illnesses. For example, it can track your sleep and heart rate, and can alert them if anything is out of the normal.
Taking a nice warm bath with the right bath salts, like the lavender bath salts linked above, can help relieve muscle aches and pains that often come with chronic diseases. Additionally, the aromatherapy of the lavender induces calmness and helps for better sleep.
7. Slippers
These UGG slippers are not only stylish, but are incredibly comfortable and supportive. The soles are thick enough to prevent any wear and tear that often happens to slippers. And believe me, these slippers will be used!
8. Sleep mask
Sleep masks help block out ambient light, which has been proven to induce better sleep patterns and an overall deeper sleep. Silk masks are specifically great for those who are easily irritated by fabrics, and are incredibly soft and cooling to wear.
Random noises in the night, whether its traffic, weather, or just someone in the house snoring, can disrupt your sleep, which is essential in helping to reduce symptoms and flare ups. These made-for-sleep noise cancelling earbuds are a fan favorite for blocking out every and all noises, and are clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster. They fit comfortably in the ear, have up to 50 specially curated sounds, and can even gently wake you up in the morning with its alarm feature.
Everyone can use and appreciate a back massager, but especially someone with chronic illness or IBD. Arthritis, aches, and pains are all commonly associated with those who have Crohns or ulcerative colitis. Having a heated neck and back massager on hand will do them wonders!
The material provided is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. You should always seek medical advice before consuming any new medicines or supplements.