If someone has just lost a person close to him or her, you often want to give a gift to show you care and that you are thinking of the survivor.   There’s a reason that people have been uttering phrases such as it’s the thought that counts when referring to gifts.  And, if you are thinking about sympathy gifts, a lot of thought must go into the choice of a present.

Although the intention of a get well gift is more hopeful, in that you want to give something that urges people to get well, not to relay a message that you know they’re not getting well, knowing your subject is also important.  When someone is hospitalized or recovering at home, they generally have a lot of time on their hands; and it’s not unusual for them to be sad or depressed.  So, after you leave and they are looking at your gift, leave behind something that they will enjoy.

For either occasion, it’s often good to gift someone something on to which they can hold on and keep.  Many adults still love stuffed animals and have special places in their homes for them.  A stuffed animal can’t replace a lost person; but, for some people, this would be a sweet sympathy gift.  Similarly, a stuffed animal is a good companion for someone in the hospital or recovering elsewhere.  In both cases, everyone can use a friend at a sad time.