Things to do when you're laid up?

HurdyGurdy

My work colleague is going in to have some serious surgery on her foot soon. She will have to be immobile for at least three weeks afterwards.

This is going to be so difficult for her as she is quite an active person. She's not much of a TV watcher, so I'd like to get her a few bits to help her pass the time.

I have got her a colouring book and gel pens and a small cross stitch kit. I will get her a puzzle book as well, but I was wondering if anyone had any other clever ideas that I could pop in the parcel for her?

McKneff

Show her this site. The forums can get addictive

libra10

McKneff wrote: »

Show her this site. The forums can get addictive

Especially the competitions section! She could spend hours entering comps.

missbiggles1

If she hasn't already got a Kindle, Amazon has a special offer on Kindle Fires for less than £30. She can read (free books) play games, watch films and use the internet quite simply.

pollypenny

Is she a reader? There are some brilliant books around.

I was lucky with my timing after an operation. I languished and watched the 2012 Olympics, which I'd never had done normally.

missbiggles1

pollypenny wrote: »

Is she a reader? There are some brilliant books around.

I was lucky with my timing after an operation. I languished and watched the 2012 Olympics, which I'd never had done normally.

I had a hysterectomy just before Wimbledon - it was wonderful to be able to watch for hours rather than being at work!

Maysie

Having had a foot operation myself nearly a month ago its so boring. I am only just getting more mobile. If I stand up for more than half an hour its bloody aching.

Its quite depressing to be honest so anything to improve mood. Scented candles. I could not have a shower/bath or get it wet for 2 weeks.I had a shower with a bag on my foot after a week big mistake it got wet and local surgery nurse re-bandaged it too loose and then too tight!. So wet wipes are good to keep her feeling fresh. Maybe some dry shampoo as well my hair was auful hence needing a shower. My hands have never been so moisturised i keep using handcream I am so bored. I would have lost the will without my 2 kindles. I could listen to music and browse web and read.

What a thoughtful friend you are I hope she gets over her op quick.

Scrimps

I am laid at the moment also due to a cycling accident and have been using crochet (it keeps getting unwound so have nothing to show for it yet) and reading. The colouring books havnt really helped me but I dont know what this person likes so it is difficult to say. I dont like doing art - it never turns out as good as I would like (see crochet). Though Im ordering an embroidery kit soon. I would second what Maysie said about hygiene difficulties, it is difficult when laid up to not feel greasy and mucky from sitting around so much so something like could help. I have found I need a flannel so can was from the basin rather than getting in the shower, body puffs dont work out of a basin so well!

For me, I would like something thoroughly productive; Ive sorted out my finances. I keep looking at them and re-jigging just for something to do.

If you can, for someone like me who isnt into art, I would try and help them organise something productive if they wanted. I wish I had a better idea as to what - I am struggling to think of that for myself! I need something with a purpose, a target and if possible, a deadline! Are there any pet projects (computer based etc) she could help someone with if she is that way inclined?

Also second the forum idea, I dip in and out but am finding lurking here does while away a lot of time and actually puts me in a better mood, the online interaction seems to help quit a lot.

She is lucky, you are very thoughtful work colleague

oystercatcher

You mention cross stitch , is she a crafty type person? I am wondering about knitting or crochet . I find crochet very relaxing and enjoyable. A book on crochet, a hook and a few balls of wool from the pound shop might start a new hobby off if she doesn't crochet already. The hook size needs to match the wool thickness , it usually tells you on the bands around the balls or if you're not sure ask in the shop. You- tube videos are brilliant for learning further too.

indsty

You could try some audio books as well, they are good to listen to while doing something else - knitting, crochet, tapestry, I get mine from the local library on CD or on their app which lets me download them.

How about craft stuff for her to make her own Christmas cards this year?

penguingirl

Encourage her to sort out her photos if she has digital photos- a while ago I spent a couple of days backing up all my photos from various computers/laptops/phones and now they auto update. I have them all on Google photos. Also if she's been on holidays and meant to do photo albums/books, this is the time to do it. You can get discount vouchers on here for things like bonus print books (my preferred option,). I've done a couple and got a couple half started, but it is on my hit list for maternity leave, especially if I am overdue and bored!

Also things like sudoku books might be handy? I went through a glass painting phase a few years ago and that was nice (and everyone got decorated wine glasses for Christmas!)