Are you looking for the perfect gift for your loved one with chronic illness this holiday season and not quite sure what to get? Look no further than this list to get you started! The best part is that most of these gifts for someone with chronic illness can be purchased from a business owned by someone with a disability or other chronic condition (or a member of their family) so you can support the community.
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Chronic Illness Gifts to Cope with Stress and Promote Relaxation
Living with debilitating chronic pain and other symptoms can be physically and mentally exhausting. Items that promote relaxation and stress relief make great gifts for someone with chronic illness.Â
Weighted Blankets
Using a weighted blanket can help reduce anxiety, sensory overload, and chronic pain.
Zen Garden
Your loved one may enjoy placing this zen garden on their coffee table or by their bed to assist with calming and meditation.
Essential Oil Diffuser and Oils
If your loved one enjoys aromatherapy, a diffuser or a new set of essential oils will promote stress relief and help them relax.
Bath and Shower Gift Baskets
A hot bath or shower is one of the best remedies for joint pain, bloating, and many other chronic illness symptoms.
Gifts for Someone with Chronic Illness and Tummy Aches
If your chronically ill family member or friend experiences nausea and digestive issues, they may greatly appreciate these gifts.Â
Heated Animal Plushies
Heating pads make great gifts for someone with chronic illness — why not get more creative with these adorable plush animals your loved one can heat up in the microwave and cuddle with in bed or on the couch.Â
Herbal Tea
Herbal tea can soothe an upset tummy, reduce stress, and help with insomnia.
Chronic Illness Gifts for Temperature Regulation
Many people with chronic illness struggle with temperature regulation because of autonomic dysfunction and circulatory issues — so a gift that helps them stay cool in the summer or warm in the winter can make a big difference in their life.Â
Foot Warmer
If your loved one has poor circulation in their extremities, a foot warmer would make a fabulous holiday gift to get them through the cold winter nights ahead. Â
Cool Gel Packs
For summer gift-giving, choose these cold packs so your loved one can enjoy the warm weather. You might also find ideas in our article about gifts for people with photosensitivity.
Functional Fashion Gifts for Someone with Chronic Illness
Everyone likes to look good, so fashionable yet functional clothing items make outstanding gifts for someone with chronic illness.Â
Compression Socks
Compression socks reduce swelling and improve circulation, but the ones at medical supply stores are usually boring or ugly. Lift your loved one's spirits with these cute and fun patterned alternatives!Â
Comfy, Accessible Clothing
These lounge pants feature side zippers, making them easier to take on and off. Accessible clothing is usually more expensive than average, so buying a present like this for a loved one who is on disability benefits can really help them out.
Disability Visibility Holiday Apparel
If your loved one enjoys raising awareness through fashion, a holiday-themed chronic illness t-shirt or sweatshirt would make the perfect present. You can find more ideas in our article about chronic illness awareness clothing.
Funny Chronic Illness Awareness Pins
Pins are an affordable but thoughtful gift and they make great collectibles. See more in our chronic illness awareness pins post.
Above all else, consider your loved one and respect their wishes. Medical expenses can take a considerable toll on someone dealing with a chronic illness. If your loved one has voiced something they have to reorder often or have been meaning to purchase, show them you care and that you have been listening by giving them something they need. However, if they would prefer to receive a gift that is not medically related in order to enjoy their holidays, please honor their request and treat them as you would any other friend or family member.
Do you have ideas for the best gifts for someone with chronic illness?
Let us know in the comments.Â
performer in the CI community 🥄