Helpful gifts for your loved ones with cancer

The holidays are the perfect time to show those you love how much you care. When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be difficult to know how to help. Those diagnosed may not even know what to suggest or feel too embarrassed to tell others what they could really use. For those who need a little help navigating this time of year, we’ve compiled a list of helpful and thoughtful gift ideas for the holidays, or any time of year.

Books are a great way to escape the stress of everyday life. Ask your loved one who their favorite author is or maybe introduce them to one of your favorites. If they’re not a big reader, maybe a box of colored pencils and an adult coloring book. Either option is bound to bring your loved one some joy and a much needed distraction.

Those going through chemotherapy treatment must stay hydrated, making reusable water bottles make a great gift. Insulated water bottles can keep drinks cold or hot during their long treatments. Find a bottle with a unique pattern or personalize one by adding their name for a special added touch!

Medical buildings of all types are known for being chilly places. While infusion rooms where chemotherapy takes place often have blankets on hand, think of how much comfort your loved one may find using a soft and cozy blanket picked out just for them. Blankets come in all colors and styles, you can find ones that feature some of that person’s favorite movie, animal, or other things they enjoy.

Cancer can be uncomfortable for everyone, so why not help your loved one by giving them something to help them be more comfortable? Soft pajamas and cozy sweaters, both great ideas to help someone feel rested and at ease! When you have to spend extended periods of times at the hospital or just relaxing at home, it is nice to have some comfy lounge wear to relax in. Silky eye masks are another great item to help your loved one get the rest they deserve. Compression socks can also be helpful with leg and arm swelling for those who must sit for extended periods of time.

During chemotherapy, many patients end up needing a port implanted under the skin to allow the chemo drugs to be administered and prevent multiple needle sticks. These ports can become easily irritated, especially by seat belts on the many car rides to doctor’s appointments that those with cancer must undergo. Port pillows are a small soft pillow that attach to the seat belt and protect the area from rubbing and jostling in the car.

After beginning to lose their hair due to treatment, many cancer patients look for ways cover and dress up their heads. Colorful and stylish, head coverings make great presents. On top of helping to boost their self-image, they can also help to keep their head warm during these chillier months.

Tablets are a convenient and fun device to help your loved one pass time while stuck in treatments. There are many different types of tablets as well, fitting every need. Your loved one having a portable way to bring their favorite books, movies, games, music, and even their work to all of their treatments is sure to be a guaranteed hit.

If your loved one already has the tech, they might appreciate a nice set of headphones to complement their device, especially if they ever have to share a hospital room or treatment area. Headphones allow them to listen to their movies and music without being disturbed or disturbing others nearby.

Lugging items back and forth from appointment to appointment can be exhausting and chaotic. A tote bag will help your loved one by giving them a convenient place to carry all their extra items that they must bring with them. Tote bags come in every shape and size, fitting anyone’s needs.

To make your gift a little more special, try filling the tote with some of their favorite things! If you’re at a loss, you can always use some of the items from this list.

Weakness and stiffness are common ailments that come with cancer treatment. Back scratchers can help with reaching those hard-to-reach areas and zipper pullers are great for those that would rather not ask for assistance or who live alone.

Gift cards are great for most people, especially when you’re unsure of what will help. Gift cards to your loved one’s favorite restaurant or meal delivery service are sure to be appreciated. No one wants to cook when they’re tired and drained from the day. Gift cards for online app stores are another great option, allowing them to find new games, books, and music to keep them entertained.

Avoid gift cards for manicures and pedicures. Doctors recommend that patients avoid these activities while undergoing treatment since they are prone to infections.

Simply letting your loved one know that you are thinking of them can go a long way. Cards are an inexpensive and sweet way to let them know that you are wishing them well. Try writing a little note to send a little extra positive energy their way.

Your time is possibly the best gift you can give for someone diagnosed with cancer. Cancer treatments often leave the patient tired and at a loss of how to get their normal household chores done. Taking some time to help with walking the dog, cooking a meal, or picking up around their home is a perfect way to show that you care. Many people are too self-conscious to ask for help. Offer to help with specific chores so that they don’t have to be embarrassed to make the request.

Another way to help is to get together with family and friends to set up system to help out the loved one in need. Make a sign-up sheet so that everyone can see what the patient may need help with, like cooking, cleaning, and driving them to appointments.

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Holiday or anytime, these gifts will be useful for anyone diagnosed with cancer. Often times, even the smallest gesture will go a long way.

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Writen by D. Maves