by Bridget Webber

Created on: January 29, 2008   Last Updated: August 08, 2011

The first point to consider before getting a gift for someone who is hospitalized is whether there are any particular rules about receiving gifts in the hospital itself. You can find out by inquiring at the front desk or by telephoning whether flowers are allowed, and whether there are other restrictions relating to the patient you are buying for.

If you are getting a gift for someone sick, but in their own home, you can just use common sense as to what may be appropriate. If the patient has a stomach upset for example, they will not be able to eat food goodies however scrumptious they are. Depending on the illness involved, there are many gifts which may help ease the patients time spent while ill. Those which comfort and those which entertain and brighten the day are the best.

For a patient who is feeling delicate a super soft pillow may be regarded as a Godsend. There are lots of lovely pillows on the market nowadays to choose from such a goose-down pillows, space age pillows which mold themselves to the users head shape, and those which have a radio inside and headphones attached. If the patient has sore skin silk sheets will feel like heaven compared to average hospital sheets. Do be aware though, that you may be left responsible for laundering them or they may get spoiled.

Sometimes a pleasant and soothing scent can help make the experience of spending hours in bed nicer. A herb pillow, possibly lavender or chamomile will be calming as well as smelling great. Soft, brushed fleece pyjamas or a silk nightdress will provide comfort and luxury for the sick patient, and be a great gift which will last beyond the illness.

For the patient who loves music an mp3 player on which you have loaded their favourite tunes will help them pass the day and take their mind off possible discomfort caused by their illness. Some mp3 players have a radio facility too which can help entertain by allowing the user to tune in and out of plays and discussions of interest.

Another useful gift which can make the patient feel good are slippers. Depending on your climate, either sheepskin or easy breath slippers would probably be appreciated. During time in hospital, and when ill at home, many patients enjoy a soak in the bath if their physical condition allows them. For this reason a great aromatherapy bubble bath and scented soap will make the patient feel relaxed and fresh.

A favourite gift for a sick person which never goes out of fashion is a puzzle book. These help keep the patients

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