Many of us have a loved one living with a chronic condition, and it can be hard to know what to give them for Christmas.

Rest assured that there are plenty of great gift ideas for the chronically ill or those with a long-term health condition.

Check out our suggestions for practical and welcome gift ideas for your loved one here.

1. Video streaming subscription

If your loved one’s condition means that they need to spend a lot of time resting, then a video streaming subscription makes an ideal gift.

It will help them to enjoy their downtime and take their mind off their worries too.

2. New pyjamas

There’s nothing comfier than slipping into a new pair of pyjamas.

Gifting a new set of PJs that are practical and look good too is sure to go down well, especially if your friend or family member has to spend a lot of time taking it easy.

3. Mini fridge

A mini fridge will be a welcome gift for anyone with a long-term condition. It will mean they can keep snacks and drinks at the right temperature in a handy place, whether that’s their bedroom or lounge.

A mini fridge can also double up as a convenient place to store medication that needs to be kept cool.

4. Pedicure

If your loved one has restricted mobility, it could be difficult for them to look after their feet.

Organising a pedicure — which can be carried out at home or in a salon — means they get a practical gift that lets them be pampered too.

A pedicure is also a great choice for anyone living with diabetes, which means they should take special care of their feet. In this case, look for a medical-grade pedicure carried out by a trained podiatrist.

5. Pill organiser

If the person you’re buying for needs to take lots of medication, then a pill organiser makes a welcome gift. It allows them to sort out their medication by day or time of day, helping them to stay on top of their dosage.

6. Non-rinse skincare products

Toiletries that require very little effort to use are of great benefit to anyone who struggles with their mobility.

You can make up a hamper filled with items such as non-rinse face cleansers, dry shampoo and sheet masks to help your recipient feel fresh and pampered.

7. Wheelchair drinks holder

A drinks holder that clips onto a wheelchair frame can make a huge difference to the user’s everyday life. It means they can enjoy their favourite drink on the go without having to navigate with one hand while holding a cup with the other.

8. Hot water bottle

Hot water bottles are ideal for easing aches and pains for anyone who is living with a chronic condition.

You can even find long hot water bottles that wrap around the body with a tie so that they reach all the places where heat is needed.

An alternative to the hot water bottle is a heat pack that can be warmed in the microwave and filled with natural material like wheat or even lavender for a soothing fragrance.

9. Medic alert bracelet

A medical ID bracelet makes one of the most practical gift ideas for someone with a long-term condition.

Medical alert bracelets either come pre-printed with details of the wearer’s condition or can be customised with details such as their medication and who to contact in an emergency.

One of the best things about med alerts is that they give the wearer peace of mind, as they can help health professionals make the best choices for their care in an emergency.

Choose from silicone or metal IDs for your loved one, according to their unique style and taste.

10. The gift of time

Last but not least, why not give the gift of your time?

You can pledge to accompany your loved one to their medical appointments or to give a certain amount of time each week to help with household chores or just to keep them company. It’s a simple gift but will mean the world to them.

For useful, practical gifts

Searching for gift ideas for someone with a long-term condition may seem tricky at first, but as you can see, there are lots of practical and affordable ideas out there.

For a useful gift that can be used day after day, check out our range of medical alert bracelets.

In a wide range of pre-printed options or customisable according to the wearer’s individual needs, our med alert bracelets cover many conditions.

And for more tips on looking after your loved one, check out this information about caring for someone with a chronic disease.