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When you are caring for someone who is suffering, consider asking yourself, “What does this person enjoy doing during normal/healthy times?”

David enjoyed watching and identifying birds. So when he was seriously ill and spent most of his time in bed, a neighbor built a bird feeder which fit outside his bedroom window. David said, “I spend many pleasant moments watching the beautiful visitors to my new bird feeder.” A nice additional gift would be a bird book or the birdwatcher’s app for the person’s phone or tablet. (For birdhouse kits and other instructions search “making bird houses” or find kits at hobby and craft stores.)

Here’s another example. A woman who was bedridden said, “I enjoy writing notes and letters, and it would be delightful to receive some attractive writing paper or cards, a new pen, some stamps, and maybe a lap desk.”

Take some time to think about what the person enjoys doing. What are his or her hobbies or interests? When you consider this question, the answer may provide you with clues for how to care well for them.

To download a free e-book on simple ways to care for the people in your life go to our post  titled 122+ Ways to Care Well.