100+ Essentials for end-of-life care

Female caregiver holding hands with female patient.

Spending the final chapter of life in comfort and dignity often comes down to the little things—the small items that ease daily struggles, bring moments of joy, and make ordinary routines feel a little more beautiful. Our list of 100+ recommendations was created with care, drawing from three places: the wisdom of hospice nurses, the needs we’ve personally noticed again and again, and the heartfelt contributions of our wonderful clients who generously shared what filled their remaining days with light.

Whether you are navigating your own illness, serving as a caregiver for someone, or wanting to support an elderly or ill loved one, these are practical, thoughtful items that can transform end-of-life from something endured into something embraced. You’ll find both comfort aids and joy-sparking gifts, organized into categories that address pain, rest, creativity, connection, and more.

 

Whether you’re caring for a loved one, or preparing for your own journey, these simple additions can bring ease and meaning to every day that matters.

Shop 100+ top products →


 

Pain

In addition to what the medical team is providing, some products can help relieve pressure, soothe muscles, and ease discomfort.

Wedge cushion set: Elevates and positions the body to reduce strain and improve circulation.

Massage gun: Offers gentle relief for aching muscles, providing relaxation and comfort.


Sleep

Creating the right conditions makes it easier to drift off and stay rested, which restores energy for meaningful moments.

Red bulb lighting: Promotes a calming environment and supports natural sleep rhythms.

Magnesium spray: Helps muscles relax and encourages deeper, more restorative sleep.


Hydration

Staying hydrated keeps the body more comfortable and energized, especially when swallowing can be difficult.

Ice chip maker: Provides soothing hydration in small, manageable amounts.

Spill-proof cups: Make drinking easier and less messy for those who spend most of their time lying down.


Air

Fresh, cool, and clean air improves comfort, eases breathing, and makes the space feel lighter.

Standing fan with remote: Choosing a fan with a remote allows the individual to control air without needing to get up or call for help.

Air filter: Reduces allergens and particles for a fresher, healthier environment.


Lighting

Soft, adjustable lighting transforms the atmosphere, reducing harshness and creating spaces that feel more comforting.

Govee RGB lights: App-controlled lights let patients or caregivers adjust colors and brightness remotely.

Clip-on light: Provides targeted light for reading or crafts without disturbing rest.


Beauty

Small touches of beauty restore dignity and joy, helping people feel like themselves even as their bodies change.

Undereye pads: Refresh and soothe tired eyes.

Eyebrow brush: Restores the appearance of brows for those experiencing hair loss.


Art

Creative outlets bring color, playfulness, and a sense of accomplishment to daily life.

Markers: Easy tools for expressive coloring and journaling.

Felt animal kit: Simple craft kits that bring comfort and delight in the act of creating.


Surfaces

Practical tables and stands create independence by keeping things close at hand and making activities possible in bed.

Lap easel: Elevates artwork, books, or puzzles to a comfortable angle.

Wheeled table: Rolls over the bed to provide a stable surface for meals, crafts, or reading.


Music

Music soothes, uplifts, and provides a powerful source of emotional expression and peace.

Keyboard piano: A compact keyboard brings the joy of playing into the room. Who says you can’t learn a new instrument at this time?

Meditation drum: Offers calming tones that promote relaxation and mindfulness.


Reading

Stories and knowledge provide escape, comfort, and connection when physical activity is limited.

Tablet stand: Makes hands-free reading or watching simple and strain-free. This is by far the best stand we’ve used.

Kindle: Brings endless stories into the room for comfort and entertainment.


Anxiety

Tactile objects and calming tools reduce stress, providing grounding and comfort in moments of restlessness.

Fidgets: Keep hands engaged and ease anxious energy.

Warmies stuffed animal: Combines soft comfort with soothing warmth or cooling relief.


Connection

Items that spark conversation and keep family close make meaningful moments easier to share.

Conversation cards: Invite meaningful dialogue and shared memories.

Amazon Echo: It offers a number of useful features, including a photo slideshow that keeps loved ones visually present in the room.


Clothing

Soft, easy-to-wear clothing helps maintain dignity while prioritizing comfort and warmth.

Robe: Provides coziness and modesty when resting or receiving care.

Slippers: Keep feet warm and make small movements safer and more comfortable.


Hygiene

Gentle, low-effort hygiene items maintain comfort, dignity, and freshness without the strain of full bathing.

Wipes: Provide quick, soothing cleansing when showers aren’t possible.

Dry shampoo: Keeps hair feeling clean and refreshed with minimal effort.

 

Explore our curated storefront, where you’ll find all of the items featured here plus dozens more!

Shop 100+ top products →


 

End-of-life doesn’t have to mean the end of comfort, joy, or beauty. The right tools and touches—a soft light, a soothing sound, a meaningful keepsake—can transform ordinary days into something gentler and more enjoyable. These recommendations aren’t just about products; they’re about creating moments of dignity, connection, and peace.

Make the most of every minute!

Elisabeth Bridges

Creative Director, specializing in content strategy, business operations, visual design, and digital accessibility.

https://brdgdesign.com
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