Caring for someone doesn’t always require regular contact—sometimes, subtle actions can express your feelings more meaningfully.
Whether it’s an old friend, a former partner, or a distant family member, these thoughtful gestures can show you still value them, even from afar.
Here are 7 subtle ways to let someone know you care, even if you’re no longer in touch regularly:
1) A simple check-in
We’ve all been there: Life gets busy, and we lose touch with people who were once a significant part of our lives—but, that doesn’t mean we forget them.
A text, an email, or even a quick call to say “Hey, how are you doing?” can convey volumes.
It’s a simple gesture that doesn’t take much time but can mean a lot to the person receiving it.
However, it’s essential to keep these interactions light and casual; the aim is to show that you care without making them feel overwhelmed or under any obligation to reciprocate.
It’s about them—not you.
The key here is subtlety: You’re simply showing that despite the distance and time, they still matter to you.
2) Remembering special occasions
Life’s milestones and special occasions can often be a bittersweet time, especially when you’re not as close to someone as you once were—but, it’s also an opportunity to show them that they’re not forgotten.
In my own experience, I’ve found that remembering birthdays, anniversaries, or any significant dates can be a powerful way to subtly show someone you still care.
It’s like saying, “Hey, I remember what’s important to you.”
A few years back, a good friend and I had drifted apart due to reasons beyond our control: We didn’t talk much anymore, but I always remembered her birthday.
Every year, I’d send her a simple text: “Happy Birthday! Hope you have a great day.”
It wasn’t much, but it was a small reminder that I still cared about her and years later, when we reconnected, she told me how much those little messages meant to her.
A simple message of well-wishes on their special day is enough to show that you remember and care.
3) Liking and commenting on social media
In our digital age, social media has become a primary way of keeping in touch with people. And it can also be a subtle platform to show someone you still care.
Engaging with their posts—a like, a comment, even a share—can be a small but meaningful gesture. It says, “I see you. I’m interested in what’s happening in your life.”
Research has shown that receiving likes and comments on social media can trigger the same parts of the brain that are activated by eating chocolate or winning money.
It’s a little boost of happiness that you’re giving them, all while reminding them that you’re still there, still caring.
But remember, keep it light and casual as overdoing it can come off as creepy or obsessive.
The idea is to be present without being overwhelming—a thoughtful comment or a shared laugh can go a long way in showing someone they’re still on your mind.
4) Sending thoughtful gifts
Gifts have always been a universal way to express care and affection, but when it comes to showing someone you still care, the key lies in the thoughtfulness of the gift.
This is about showing that you know them, remember their likes, dislikes, and what brings them joy.
A book by their favorite author, a gourmet coffee blend knowing their love for coffee, or even a handmade craft that reminds you of them can be great examples.
The point is to send something that says, “I saw this and thought of you.”
Sending such gifts out of the blue can be a pleasant surprise as it’s an unobtrusive way to let them know they’re still in your thoughts.
However, ensure your gift is appropriate and respectful considering your current relationship status with them.
5) Being there in times of need
In life, we all go through ups and downs—it’s during these tough times that we appreciate a helping hand or a comforting word the most.
I remember when I heard a close friend, someone I hadn’t spoken to for years, had lost a loved one.
It was a tough time for her—despite the distance and time, I felt a deep urge to reach out.
I sent her a simple message, expressing my condolences and letting her know I was there if she needed to talk; I didn’t expect anything in return, but I wanted her to know that despite our lack of communication, she wasn’t alone.
Reaching out in times of need doesn’t have to be grand because a simple “I’m here for you” can mean the world to someone going through a difficult time.
6) Respecting boundaries
It’s essential to remember that while showing someone you still care, it’s equally important to respect their space and boundaries.
This can be a subtle but significant way of showing you care about their comfort and feelings.
If they’ve made it clear they want more space or time, honoring that request is a form of caring as it shows that you respect their wishes and are not trying to impose yourself on them.
On the other hand, if they reach out to you for a chat or to catch up, be responsive.
Show interest in their lives, but avoid prying into sensitive areas unless they open up about them.
Respecting boundaries may seem like you’re doing nothing, but it’s a crucial part of maintaining healthy relationships.
7) Being genuine
At the core of all the subtle ways to show someone you still care is one fundamental element—genuineness.
Without it, all other attempts may come off as insincere or manipulative.
Being genuine means expressing your care and affection in ways that are true to who you are—being yourself and letting your actions speak for your feelings.
Genuine care cannot be faked and it’s felt in the warmth of your words, the sincerity of your actions, and the consistency of your behavior.
Showing someone you still care is about letting them know they hold a special place in your heart, despite the passage of time or the distance between you.
Final thoughts: It’s all about the heart
The complexities of human relationships often trace back to one fundamental element—the heart.
In the context of showing someone you still care, even when you’re not in touch anymore, it’s the heart that plays a significant role.
A quote by Maya Angelou comes to mind: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Showing someone you still care isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about how you make them feel.
A simple check-in, remembering a special date, or offering support in times of need can make someone feel valued and remembered.
In the complexities of life and relationships, subtle gestures carry immense power; to someone feeling unseen, these small acts can mean everything.
Care is a universal language that transcends time and distance. It’s a quiet but profound way of saying, “You still hold a special place in my heart.”
And isn’t that what our hearts are meant for—to love, remember, and care?
What would Jesus say?
Unsure whether to move on from a failed marriage? Struggling with desire and feeling guilty for it? Wanting to live a life Jesus would be proud of?
Let Jesus tell you how to be a good Christian according to the teachings of the Bible.
We brought Jesus back to life with the help of AI. Ask your toughest life questions, and Jesus will tell you exactly what to do.
