13 Things to Bring to the Hospital to Help Someone

When you learn that a friend or family member is in the hospital, you may wonder how you can assist or cheer them up.

Bring them a gift, simple and valuable, like an extension cord or something special like your favourite book.

To get you started, we asked our Facebook group to share the most meaningful or valuable presents they’ve received during a lengthy hospital stay. We hope their suggestions inspire you to bring a friend or family member.

Tissues and toilet paper

The shortage of high-quality tissues and toilet paper is a typical complaint among hospital patients. Although it may not be your first instinct when taking a present to the hospital, you may be amazed at how wonderful a couple of boxes of high-quality, soft washroom products may be.

Food

Good meal, good mood, as the adage goes. So consider bringing your loved one’s favourite tasty treats to brighten their day. Check with their family for any dietary restrictions and clarify that you are permitted to bring food into the hospital.

Time Well Spent

Hospital stays can be isolating. Be there for your loved one by checking in on them and spending time with them in whatever way you can. Consider coming in for an in-person visit, or connect virtually through a phone call or video chat. Whatever method works best for you and your loved one, simply being present can mean the world.

Magazines and books

Reading can provide an escape from your world into an altogether another one, which your loved one may require. So you may give them a few of your favourite books or something else you think they’d enjoy. Colouring books, sketchbooks, and journals can all be used to express one’s creativity. Magazines are also an excellent choice because they are extremely visual and enjoyable to read.

Comfortable clothing

As previously said, “soft” is a sensation that hospital patients crave. So bring your loved one’s cosiest clothes from home or something brand new and extra-soft: think robes, giant sweaters, pyjamas, and socks.

Gift Cards

Gift cards can be a simple and considerate method to provide financial assistance. For example, you may bring a gift card to their favourite restaurant, coffee shop, gas station, or something exciting like an activity once they are released from the hospital.

Items for Self-Care

Long stays in the hospital make it challenging to prioritise hygiene how you’re used to. Self-care supplies such as deodorant, dry shampoo, lip balm, lotion, and shaving kits might help your loved one feel more at ease.

Helping Around the House

Managing your day-to-day life at home can be pretty tough when you’re in the hospital, especially if you have many trips or are there for an extended amount of time. So finding out where you can assist out at home is a handy thing you can do for your loved one.

Household duties such as mowing the lawn, dog-sitting, or watering the plants may fall under this category. It could also include something more substantial, such as assisting with childcare. One of the most valuable gifts you can provide is the assurance that their household is well-cared for.

Cards with Handwriting

A handwritten card is exceptionally thoughtful. In our digital-first society, it restores a sense of durability and caring that no text can entirely imitate. Plus, cards are great for saving and looking back on when a little brightness is needed.

Care Package

A care package is a kind and memorable way to assist a friend or family member while in the hospital. There is no right or wrong way to put up a get well soon hamper in Singapore, but a smart place to start is with a combination of practical and thoughtful goods. Consider experimenting with some of the items mentioned in this post!