The flu season seems to be year round now, given the fact that a lot of people are getting sick every month. Colds, flu, coughs – you name it, almost all of us caught it last year. This year might be no different. Nowadays, it’s easier to contract a cold or flu, even if you’re just going out to do your errands.  

When we get sick, there is nothing more comforting than knowing your loved ones wish you well. And the same applies to them. When they catch the sniffles, we want to make them feel better. If we’re not in the same area as our sick loved ones, there are still things we can do to brighten their days. Curating a care package for a sick friend or family member is one of them.  

Care packages and gift baskets will surely brighten them up. Apart from expressing your love, a sick care package also contains items that can speed up your loved one’s recovery.  

How Do I Make a Care Package for a Sick Loved One?  

With care packages, it’s tempting to throw in anything and everything. However, it’s important to be mindful of what your loved one needs. Food is always essential but learn about their dietary restrictions first. Consider their needs, too. Medicines and hygiene products are valuable additions to a cold care package. If you know about things that will cheer them up, such as books and toys, feel free to add them to your “Get Well Soon” basket.  

What is a Good Gift for a Sick Friend? 

When people around you are under the weather, here are some care package ideas for a sick friend or family member that you can do. 

Care Package Idea #1:  A Box of Comfort 

Staying at home because you’re sick might sound fun, but for some people, they feel stuck at home with symptoms. Fortunately, there are plenty of get-well-soon gifts that can make a sick person feel better and entertained: 

• Sanicare Facial Tissue in an Econo Box. Made from 100% virgin pulp, Sanicare’s Facial Tissues are perfect must-haves, especially for friends who have colds and runny noses. A box of tissues is handy, especially if they keep sneezing. Plus, the tissue’s cottony soft feel won’t hurt their noses! 
• A cozy blanket and fuzzy socks. Keep friends warm despite the shivers with anything cozy. A blanket is perfect for snuggling while socks will keep their toes warm.  
• Gifts for entertainment. Most of us are content with watching our phones during our sick days. But not everyone is comfortable doing so, especially if they’re suffering from headaches. Entertain sick loved ones without the screentime by gifting books or puzzles.  

Care Package Idea #2: First Aid Must-Haves 

This box contains items that offer relief by easing the symptoms of their illness. It’s all about relief. Consider adding the following to your first-aid care package: 

• A hot/cold pack to relieve sore and aching muscles 

• Menthol ointment and rubs to help with nasal decongestion. A neti pot can also clear their sinuses.  
• Hand gel sanitizer for them to keep their hands clean and free from germs. SCPA Solutions’ Hand Gel Sanitizer’s 60% ethyl alcohol-based sanitizer kills 99.99% of germs but is gentle on the hands.  

Care Package Idea #3: Foods for Healing 

When we feel sick, proper nutrition isn’t often a priority. However, many foods offer specific nutrients that ease inflammation and boost our immune systems, which can help speed up recovery. Some foods are also gentler to the stomach and easier to digest, which could also help you feel better faster.  

Include some of the following foods in your care package for your sick friend or family member.  

• Broth-based soups. Broths and soups, like the famous chicken noodle soup, are excellent sources of electrolytes and fluids, which are helpful when we’re sick. When served hot, these soups can also relieve sinus congestion. Broth-based soups are also easy on your stomach but still delicious and rich in vitamins. Additionally, bone broths also contain small amounts of amino acid glycine, which promotes more restorative sleep. 
• Coconut water. This beverage is rich in electrolytes, which is a must-have for loved ones suffering from diarrhea and fever, as well as symptoms like vomiting or sweating. Coconut water also contains low levels of natural sugar from the fruit, which can boost the body’s energy.  
• Bananas. Bananas are great snacks when you’re sick. Bland and soft but rich and nutrients, bananas are rich in potassium and can replenish the body’s electrolytes. This fruit also contains soluble fiber, which can help reverse diarrhea.  
• Hot tea. Tea is a favorite remedy for flu and colds. It also can relieve congestion; however, it shouldn’t be consumed too hot because it can irritate the throat. Your loved one can sip a cup of tea all day to stay hydrated while addressing their congestion.  
• Raw honey. Honey is popular for its antibacterial properties. People often use it to dress their burns or cuts. It can also support your immune system. When added to warm milk or teak, it makes for a cough-soothing and hydrating drink.  
• Citrus fruits. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and neutralizes harmful free radicals. Increasing your intake of vitamin C also decreases your risk of catching a cold and protects you from pneumonia and other types of infections.  

Care Package Idea #4: A Good Rest 

Apart from a gift basket, service is another way to help a sick loved one. Ask them if there’s anything you can do to help them rest. Tick off some items on their to-do list. This gesture will reduce their stress and help them focus on getting better. You can run errands, cook them a meal, or clean for them.  

These care package ideas for a sick friend or family member will surely brighten up your loved one’s day. By sending them a get-well basket, you’re letting them know that you’re thinking of them and wish for their speedy recovery.   

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