Trying to relate to a “spoonie” (someone living with a chronic illness) can be difficult. While every chronic condition is different, it’s hard for any healthy person to relate. You simply don’t understand what it’s like to struggle every day (in a lot of cases, while also dealing with chronic pain).

That doesn’t mean however, that you can’t be there for the spoonie in your life.

According to the American Psychological Association, what matters most when relating to a loved one with a chronic illness is to make them feel cared about. A great way to do this is with the right gift.

Check out these 10 great gift ideas for the spoonie in your life:

1) A PEMF Device

According to the CDC, in the United States in 2016 roughly one in five people suffered from chronic pain. Chronic pain has been linked to limited mobility, increased anxiety and depression, opioid dependence, and a lower quality of life. Many people struggling with chronic illness also experience chronic pain.

Therefore, a great gift for any spoonie in your life would be a PEMF machine, which uses magnawaves to restore cellular energy in the body allowing the body to heal itself. The magnawaves from an electromagnetic field therapy machine can reduce inflammation (an issue with many chronic conditions) and can improve energy, mobility, and even, anxiety and depression.

2) Jewelry

Just because she doesn’t leave the house much because of her illness doesn’t mean she doesn’t want something pretty. Getting her jewelry with lab created diamonds will be budget-friendly while still providing the great clarity of a natural diamond. Lab created diamonds use chemical components found in earth mined diamonds (such as carbon atoms) to create a more a natural diamond. Whether it’s engagement rings, gemstones, pendants, or earrings; you’re sure to find a lab diamond with physical properties that bring it so much clarity that it will catch the naked eye with its beauty.

3) A Comfort Gift Basket

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with chronic illnesses are at a higher risk for developing depression. Cute and cozy items can be extra appreciated by spoonies in need of daily comfort and solace. While they won’t substitute professional treatments, they can provide temporary comfort.

Suggestions include:

  • Fluffy socks and cozy pajamas
  • Scented Epsom salt for a relaxing bath
  • Scented candles
  • Message oils and lotions

4) Healthy and Cute Items

While no one wants unsolicited medical advice, when you’re living with issues like chronic pain and chronic fatigue it can make taking care of yourself even harder. Make it a bit easier on them with gifts that will make taking care of themselves easier.

Examples:

  • A fashionable tumbler with a straw for water
  • Yoga supplies (chair yoga book/video)
  • A subscription to a fruit of the month club

5) Items That Make Life Easier

According to the National Institute of Health, fatigue is an “extremely common” symptom for those suffering from chronic disease. Being tired all the time can make getting anything done difficult. Get them a gift that will make everyday tasks easier and quicker.

Examples include:

  • A “quick meals” cookbook
  • A new crockpot
  • A blender (“green” smoothies are an easy way to consume veggies)
  • Pay for a maid service to clean their house

6) Something Stimulating

Being stuck at home (sometimes bedridden) can get boring fast. Get them something that will help keep their minds sharp and engaged.

Examples:

  • A great book
  • A Netflix subscription
  • An adult coloring book with colored pencils

7) A Positivity Gift Basket

A lot of spoonies spend a considerable amount of time in bed or on the couch. This can get depressing and discouraging fast. Bring some positivity into their life with a basket full of items aimed at lifting their spirits.

Examples:

  • A throw pillow with a positive message
  • A bottle of lemonade with a note that says “when life gives you lemons…”
  • Inspirational knick-knacks
  • An inspiring memoir

8) An Easy Night Out

While there can be many limitations to a night out with a spoonie, that doesn’t mean they don’t desire to get out of the house. Plan a simpler night. Instead of an elaborate dinner and a movie—pick one. Or, sign up for a “paint night” class and then make them dinner at home where they can relax.

9) Gifts to Help With Temperature

Many chronic conditions cause people to become intolerant of hot temperatures. For example, according to the Cleveland Clinic, extreme temperatures can cause a worsening of symptoms in people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This is especially true in cases of high heat and humidity.

Consider these heat busting gifts:

  • Cooling towel (in their favorite color, of course)
  • Misting fan for the summer months
  • Fashionable tank tops
  • Desk fan

10) “Spoonie” gag gifts

Sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine. Fill a gift bag full of spoon-related gag gifts. Tip: look up “spoonie gift” on Etsy—you’ll find a bunch of amazing items to put in your bag.