A gift is a great way to show you’re thinking of someone in a time of need. If someone you love is sick or in the hospital, giving them a ‘get well soon’ gift shows them that you care. Yet, finding the right 'get well soon' message isn’t always easy. How do you find the perfect thing that encompasses all of what you’re trying to say?
Jump ahead to these sections:
- ‘Get Well’ Gifts to Help the Time Pass
- Inspirational ‘Get Well’ Gifts
- ‘Get Well’ Gifts for Parents
- ‘Get Well’ Gifts for Kids
- DIY ‘Get Well’ Gifts
- Cheap or Affordable ‘Get Well’ Gifts
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve compiled over 30 ‘get well soon’ gift ideas that are perfect for any recipient or situation. Remember, it’s the thought that counts. As long as you’re putting their needs and wishes first, you’re on the right track.
Show you care with one of these gift ideas below. They’ll be feeling better in no time, and you’ll know your kindness made an impact.
‘Get Well’ Gifts to Help the Time Pass
Passing time when you’re sick is one of the biggest challenges, so you’ll want to find things that are stimulating for your loved one or related to one of their hobbies.
Everything seems to slow down when you’re not feeling well, so help them keep the focus on something else for a little while.
1. Book or something to read
Books make wonderful gifts anytime, but they’re especially wonderful as a ‘get well soon’ gift. Reading makes time go a bit faster, and it offers a welcome escape.
Ask if there’s anything they've been wanting to read for a while or pick up a bestseller.
2. Offer help
Because some people aren’t always willing to ask for help when they need it, why not ask? Offering to take over chores around the house or to take over the yard work could be a great way to show you care.
3. Movie
Everyone loves a good movie. These are a staple of sick days, but they might not know what to watch. Gifting a new movie (on-demand, as a DVD, or a streaming service like Amazon Prime Video) keeps them entertained.
4. Pair of headphones
With the rise of music streaming, audiobooks, and podcasts, there’s always something to listen to. Since we’re often up late when we’re sick or might have trouble hearing, gift a pair of nice noise-canceling headphones.
5. Backrest or pillow
Last but not least, give the gift of comfort. Hospital beds or even their own bed get uncomfortable after a while. A nice backrest or pillow eases any muscle pain.
Inspirational ‘Get Well’ Gifts
Give them something inspirational and uplifting to get through this hard time. Think of things that bring a smile to your face. That’s what you’re trying to achieve with your gift.
6. Flowers
Of course, a classic gift is fresh flowers. People really love flowers, and they bring a much-needed brightness to any space.
7. Teddy bear
Being sick is often isolating. Show them you’re thinking of them with a cuddly teddy bear. We all could use a hug when we’re sick!
8. Warm blanket
Nothing is better than getting cozy with a blanket. When you’re sick, there’s no such thing as too many blankets. The fluffier, the better.
9. Adult coloring book
Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore. An adult coloring book is a great way to pass the time and create something beautiful. These are perfect for snuggling up in bed while sick.
10. Favorite magazine or book
Getting lost in a magazine or book is the perfect way to spend time when you’re sick. Gift a loved one something to read or a Kindle Unlimited membership to help them escape for a little while.
‘Get Well’ Gifts for Parents
Parents are the ones who typically care for us when we’re sick, but sometimes the tables turn. Treat your own parents to something special when they’re not feeling their best. Every little thing counts.
11. Food gift card
Nothing is better than a home-cooked meal, but cooking is the last thing anyone wants to do when they’re sick. Give your parents the night off from cooking with a restaurant gift card.
12. Pajamas
Pajamas are the only comfortable thing to wear when you’re sick. Parents often don’t buy cozy, luxurious sleepwear for themselves, so treat them to something special.
13. Decorative mug
Warm tea tastes so much better in a decorative mug, especially when it’s from someone special. Better yet, add in a few packets of tea for their enjoyment.
14. Care package
Parents typically send care packages when we’re sick, and now it’s time to make one for them. Pack sick-day essentials like warm socks, tissues, and medicine.
15. Bottle of wine
While they might not be able to drink while they’re recovering, the bottle of wine with a personalized glass is something nice to look forward to when they’re better.
‘Get Well’ Gifts for Kids
Kids get restless easily, especially when they’re sick. Making sure they have plenty of things to do and comfort items is key for a speedy recovery.
16. Hot chocolate
Is anything as comforting as hot chocolate? Add extra marshmallows for more fun. Having something warm to hold and sip is a much-needed relief from the discomfort from sickness.
17. Art supplies
Kids love to create, and making arts and crafts is an easy activity to do when sick. Choose an art kit or just opt for some paper and crayons. Just make sure they won’t make a huge mess!
18. Stuffed animals
A furry, cozy friend is the perfect way to ensure the little one in your life doesn’t feel so alone. Being sick is hard work! It’s much less stressful with a stuffed animal to cuddle.
19. Video game
Being sick is the perfect time to enjoy a new video game, especially on a handheld device or gaming console.
20. Small toy
Finally, treat the kid in your life to a new toy. While toys aren’t right for every occasion, they’re a positive pick-me-up when not feeling well.
DIY ‘Get Well’ Gifts
You don’t have to go to a store to find the best ‘get well’ gift. There are a lot of homemade options that are just as special. These ideas are simple enough for anyone to make, no special crafting skills necessary.
21. Photo album
A picture really is worth a thousand words. Give your loved one a photo album or scrapbook. Show them your favorite memories and write notes to go along with them. This is the perfect motivator to get well soon!
22. Home-cooked meal
Since cooking isn’t usually possible, why not cook something yourself? Whip up something easy to eat and delicious. You can’t go wrong with comfort food. Ask what they’re in the mood for and start cooking. Remember to gift any food in a container you don’t need back.
23. Offer to help
Offering a helping hand is sometimes the best gift of all. You can help with chores, pets, kids, or anything else your loved one needs. Knowing that everything is taken care of is such a relief.
24. Custom video
If you can’t be near your loved one, show them you care with a custom video. Film something simple, even if you don’t have any equipment. Say what you love about the person and why you hope they get well soon. It’s sure to put a smile on their face.
25. Baked treats
Do you remember that home-cooked meal we talked about earlier? Don’t forget about dessert! Baking something delicious is the perfect way to cure any sickness, even if it’s just because it tastes so good.
If baking isn't your forte, you can consider getting a basket of baked goods delivered to them.
Cheap or Affordable ‘Get Well’ Gifts
Finally, don’t let your budget get in the way of your “get well soon” gift. All you need is a few dollars and some creativity to gift any of these ideas below.
They’re just as thoughtful as any big-ticket item, but you don’t have to worry about the price tag.
26. Letter
If you have a pen and paper, you can write a letter. A “get well soon” card is simple but carries a lot of meaning. You might create a card for someone with terminal cancer or share a positive message for cancer patients.
Even for common colds or the stomach flu, there’s something kind you can say to help someone feel better.
27. Balloons
Balloons might be small, but they’re still a ray of warmth. If your loved one is at home alone or in a hospital, balloons show them that someone cares about them. They’re a fun way to wish someone well.
28. Bath bomb
Who doesn’t love a warm bath? When you’re not feeling your best, a bath washes away the stress and worry. Gifting an inexpensive bath bomb is a kind option for offering a bit of self-care. We all deserve more “me time,” especially when we’re sick!
29. Candle
Speaking of “me time,” a nice candle is another great gift that’s also affordable. Candles emit a natural warmth and a calming scent.
You have the option of buying a candle or making one yourself, and the customizations are endless. Candles transport us to the beach, the mountains, or any other happy place.
30. Small plant
Plants are a visual reminder of life and the sun. They remind us that life is always moving forward and that everyone thrives with a bit of sunlight.
Gifting a small plant that’s easy to care for is a symbolic way to share your thoughts with your loved one in their moment of need.
Send Something Special
Nobody wants to deal with the pain and emotional struggle that comes with being sick. Whether your loved one is at home resting or in the hospital, treat them to something special with one of these gift ideas. Saying “get well soon” has never been easier, even if you’re not sure the right words to say.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your loved one and offer your support. They might just be waiting for a helping hand. Our health is the most important thing we have. Make sure you’re valuing yours and taking care of yourself. In the meantime, it’s never too early to start end-of-life planning. Health is never guaranteed, so prepare for the future today.