There are a lot of people living with chronic conditions in Australia. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that in 2017-18, one in two Australians had one or more of their 10 selected chronic conditions (arthritis, asthma, back pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, mental health conditions and osteoporosis).

So it’s likely that you know someone with one of these conditions. If you have a friend who has been newly diagnosed, you can let them know you’re thinking of them by creating a care package of items.

Help them navigate this new chapter of their life by choosing things that will provide a practical use, or simply remind them that you care. We show you how with our ideas for a thoughtful – and useful – care package.

A journal for self-expression

If your friend likes to express himself or herself in word or art form, a blank journal makes a super thoughtful gift.

It’s a safe place where they can write down or depict their thoughts and emotions as they come to terms with the diagnosis and take charge of their self-care.

They can use it to keep track of their symptoms or wellness goals like taking exercise or practising activities for mental wellbeing.

This allows them to look back on their journey and feel confident and optimistic about what the future holds.

Aids to ease daily living

There are lots of different aids and gadgets available to help your friend manage their condition more easily on a day-to-day basis.

For example, if your friend suffers from arthritis, you can include zipper pull and button hook tools to make getting dressed independently easier.

Anyone who takes a lot of medication will appreciate a pill box marked with days of the week. This will help them organise and keep track of any drugs they need to take.

Or what about a heat pack to help alleviate chronic back pain or other conditions?

Pampering treats

Living with a chronic condition can sometimes mean that self-care gets forgotten. Turn that around by gifting your friend or loved one some luxurious treats they can use to help them relax.

You can include:

  • Nail file and hand cream for a simple manicure
  • Face and body oil to replenish tired skin
  • Hair conditioning treatment for a touch of luxury
  • A scented candle to create a relaxing ambience

Books and magazines

If your loved one’s chronic condition means that they will be spending a lot of time in the hospital or resting at home, make sure that they have plenty to keep them entertained.

Send them a selection of books or magazines or even a voucher so they can choose their reading material themselves.

You could also include puzzle books to keep them occupied during long hours receiving or recuperating from treatment.

A 'green fingers' package

Spending time in nature is life-affirming and uplifting, so there’s no better gift for someone struggling with a chronic condition than a 'green fingers' package.

You can include everything your loved one needs to create their own mini garden – for example, plant pots, compost and seeds. They will take delight in watching their plants grow, and nurturing their seedlings will give them a renewed purpose in their everyday life.

Medical alert wristband

A medical alert wristband contains information about a chronic condition that can prove vital in an emergency situation.

It takes the form of a simple wristband that can be pre-printed with a specific condition, like diabetes for example.

You can also find write-on wristbands that allow you to add your own personalised information, so you can include things like medication and who to contact in the event of an emergency.

Choose medical wristbands in silicone for the most comfortable experience. Silicone is durable, hypoallergenic and easy to wear, so it makes the ideal material for a chronic illness wristband.

And one of the best things about gifting a medical alert wristband is that it will help the recipient feel they are living positively with their condition.

Help a friend with a chronic condition in Australia

As a friend, you will naturally want to reach out to your loved one with a chronic condition and do what you can to make them feel cared for.

It's easy to do by putting together a care package that reflects your thoughtfulness and concern.

If you’d like to include a medical wristband, browse the Mediband range. Choose by condition or select one that the recipient can customise with their own details.

Know that our wristbands are designed here in Australia and shipped all across the country. It’s all part of our service to make life easier and more enjoyable for people living with chronic conditions.