Thoughtful Care Packages to Help Loved Ones Recover From the Flu

Caring for Someone With the Flu? Put Together a Thoughtful Care Package

When someone you care about comes down with the flu, you undoubtedly want to help them feel as comfortable as possible while they recover. One great way to show you care? Put together a flu care package filled with items that can help them rest, stay hydrated, and alleviate their symptoms.

Include Supplies That Will Aid in Recovery

The contents you choose to include in a flu care package will depend on the recipient's needs and preferences. However, there are a few staples that are sure to aid them while recovering:

• Tissues - Stock up on soft, lotion-infused tissues to help soothe their nose during cold and flu season.
• Cough drops - Choose honey lemon or cherry flavored drops to help calm coughs.
• Pain relievers - Add acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease aches, pains, fevers, and headaches.
• Vapor rub - Apply mentholated rubs to the chest to relieve congestion.
• Hand sanitizer - Remember to include alcohol-based sanitizer to kill germs.
• Disposable face masks - Wearing a face mask can prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Forehead thermometer - Include a thermometer to monitor fevers.
• Electrolyte powder - Hydrating drinks replace fluids and minerals lost from fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Soup - Offer instant chicken noodle or vegetable soup to provide nutrients.
• Crackers - Help settle upset stomachs with plain crackers.
• Honey - Soothe sore throats by dissolving a spoonful of honey.
• Popsicles - Sucking on frozen pops can diminish throat pain.

Provide Items That Promote Comfort and Relaxation

In addition to medical supplies, you'll want to incorporate products that enable your loved one to rest peacefully while recovering from the flu:

• Soft blankets - Cozy up under warm throws and nap during the day.
• Comfy pajamas - Prioritize comfort by wearing loose-fitting pjs.
• Bed socks - Keep feet nice and toasty since body chills are common with the flu.
• Eye mask - Block out light to prevent headaches or dizziness.
• Ear plugs - Muffle sounds that may disrupt sleep.
• Pillow spray - Spritz on calming lavender or eucalyptus scents before bedtime.
• Chamomile tea - Sip a hot mug to relax and promote sleep.
• Bath bombs - Enjoy an aromatic soak when fever dissipates.
• Candles - Set the mood with gently scented candles.
• Essential oils - Place a few drops on pillowcases or diffuse in the room.
• Adult coloring book - Pass time scribbling in calming patterns and designs.
• Crossword puzzles - Exercise your mind to take it off not feeling well.

Include Nourishment for When Appetite Returns

Although caring for someone with the flu often means accepting they may not feel up to eating much initially, they'll need nourishment for when their appetite bounces back. Therefore, be sure to incorporate nutritious ingredients in your care package:

• Ginger ale - Sip bubbly ginger ale to help dispel nausea.
• Mint tea - Soothe digestion with soothing mint tea.
• Saltines - Start with bland crackers then graduate to toast or rice.
• Bananas - Regain nutrients and potassium with easy-to-digest fruit.
• Avocados - Blend nutrient-dense avocados into smoothies or spreads.
• Chicken or vegetable broth - Try sipping warm, salty broth.
• Greek yogurt - Gain protein without upsetting stomachs with thick yogurt.
• Oatmeal - Enjoy a comforting bowl of oats with banana or cinnamon.
• Rice - Fill up on starchy white rice, a go-to for sensitive tummies.
• Probiotics - Restore healthy gut flora thrown off by sickness and antibiotics.

Send Love Through Heartfelt Notes and Small Gifts

While the focus is caring for their physical needs, its just as important to nurture their emotions when someone is feeling crummy. Include sweet gestures like:

• Get Well Soon card - Start with a caring store-bought or handmade card conveying love.
• their favorite magazine - Give them reading material to occupy resting time.
• Gift card for streaming - Provide entertainment with Netflix/Hulu while laid up.
• Gift card for food delivery - Offer delivery service for when theyre up for a cooked meal.
• Houseplant - Lift their spirits with a lively blooming plant or succulent to nurture.
• Cozy slipper socks - Keep feet warm while puttering around home recovering.
• Favorite treats - Indulge sore throats with popsicles, pudding cups, or ice cream.
• Tea samplers - Try an array of soothing herbal or green tea blends.
• Online games - Pass time playing Words With Friends or other multiplayer games.
• Positive affirmations - Frame an inspirational quote or send encouraging text messages.

Remember, being thoughtful during recovery can make all the difference. With rest and compassion, theyll be back to health before you know it!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.