Thanksgiving’s a time for being with loved ones, sharing delicious meals, and, of course, giving thanks for the many blessings in our lives.

Unfortunately, though, some people have no choice but to spend this special day in the hospital. Do you know someone who’ll be in this predicament this year?

Well, don’t worry!

Although spending Thanksgiving in the hospital is never ideal, it can still be a fun-filled and joyful affair. Would you like some help making that happen?

Read on to discover a selection of activities and gift ideas that are guaranteed to lighten the mood and help make their Thanksgiving the best it can possibly be.

Watch the Macy’s Parade

It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without watching the annual Macy’s Day Parade! Whether you catch some or all of it, having these huge celebrations on the TV should help set a positive tone for the day.

Of course, if you’re huge football fans and usually watch the game together, then put that on instead!

Failing that, why not take a look at the different Thanksgiving movies that’ll be showing? You can’t go wrong with The Blind Side, Alice’s Restaurant, or A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.

Play Classic Board Games

Sometimes the best ideas for spending Thanksgiving in the hospital are the simplest.  Case and point?

Board games!

Assuming peoples’ competitiveness doesn’t cause a ruckus, things like Monopoly, Candy Land, and Connect 4 are awesome ways to fill the room with laughter. It’s good old-fashioned family fun that never fails to bring everyone closer together.

Bring Some Sweet Treats

Being in hospital shouldn’t mean you miss out on the finger-licking goodies you’d normally eat on Thanksgiving!

So why not sweeten up their day by bringing them some homemade spiced pumpkin pie, sugar-coated apple fritters, or apple pie with ice cream? It’s a sure-fire way to put a smile on their face!

Offer Messages from Friends and Family

Many people become lonely when they’re in the hospital for a long time. Away from the comfort of their friends and family, they can soon start feeling cut off and isolated.

As you’d expect, it gets even harder when they’re there on Thanksgiving.

That’s why another lovely thing to do in this situation is to connect anyone in this situation virtually with their nearest and dearest.

Siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins could all record a message for whoever’s in hospital, or you could arrange a big group call over Zoom. It might be emotional, but they’re sure to appreciate any interaction of this kind.

Buy Some Gift Shop Items

Gone are the days when hospital shops were only good for last-minute gift ideas!

Modern ones, like Cloverkey gift shops, offer countless high-quality items to satisfy everyone’s needs. Why not go and check it out before your Thanksgiving visit?

From balloons and books to candy and clothing, you’re sure to find something your loved one will appreciate. Combine it with a thoughtful Thanksgiving card and some flowers and you can’t go wrong.

Give the Best Gift for Thanksgiving Day: You

Gift shop items always go down a treat. However, there’s one particular present that’s guaranteed to make their day.

And the best part? It’s totally free.

That’s right, the best gift for Thanksgiving Day for someone you know in hospital is you. Choosing to visit them there (whether it’s for a few hours or the full day) instead of spending it at home will make them feel loved, cared for, and included. Any sadness they might be feeling will disappear as soon as you walk through the door!

Remember These Gifts for Spending Thanksgiving in the Hospital

There you have it, then: a selection of awesome gifts and activities to help you lighten the mood for anyone spending Thanksgiving in the hospital! Keep them in mind, put them into practice, and you should be one step closer to giving them a happier, more joyful day.Would you like to learn more about Cloverkey and our hospital gift shop expertise? Get in touch today!