The holidays are here, and the shopping frenzy is underway. Spending hours searching for the perfect gift for a hard-to-buy-for friend or relative can give anyone the bah-humbug blues, especially when shopping for a loved one who lives in a skilled nursing facility. Selecting something meaningful for a senior in long-term care can be particularly challenging, since so many typical gifts (clothing, gadgets, kitchen items) just do not fit their day-to-day life anymore.
Kathleen Biggs, CTRS, Assistant Director of Therapeutic Recreation at Gurwin, shares some practical ideas to take the stress out of gift-giving this season, along with a few tips on choosing gifts that truly fit a resident’s life.
Gifts That Spark Memory and Connection
Good gift choices include:
- A photo book or digital photo frame loaded with a cheery message from loved ones
- A personalized music player preloaded with a playlist of favorite songs from years past
- A simple audio player with headphones and a selection of favorite music or audiobooks
These kinds of gifts work especially well for residents living with memory loss, since familiar music and photos can open the door to conversation and comfort even when words are hard to find.
“Gifts that stimulate memory and reminiscing are ideal for seniors and can help elicit verbal expression and positive emotions from withdrawn residents.” – Kathleen Biggs
Gifts for Comfort and Coziness
A soft blanket, or for those with limited mobility, a lap blanket, warm shawl, or bed jacket, makes a wonderful gift. Everyone appreciates being warm and comfortable, especially on a cold winter day, and these gifts double as something a resident can use and feel every single day, not just unwrap once.
Gifts for the Mind
A magazine subscription geared to a resident’s interests provides ongoing visual and mental stimulation long after the holidays end. Puzzles are another great option: word puzzles help build cognitive skills and keep a resident engaged, while jigsaw puzzles can help maintain hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Gifts for Residents Living With Memory Loss
For residents living with memory loss, lifelike baby dolls can provide comfort and ease agitation. Interactive companion pets that respond to touch can be soothing as well, offering a sense of purpose, encouraging socialization, and helping to counter boredom. These companion pets can also spark memories of childhood pets, leading to spontaneous and meaningful conversation.
Everyday Personal Touches
Personal care items like aftershave or cologne for a man, or lotions, powders, or a favorite perfume for a woman, are always appreciated. A supply of stationery, complete with pens, stamps, and an up-to-date address book, makes it easier for a resident to stay in touch with family and friends. A personalized monthly calendar, customized with photos of family members and marked with important dates, helps a resident keep track of special occasions and feel connected to family life.
A Few Tips Before You Shop
Check in with staff first
Every community has its own guidelines around food items, electronics, and personal belongings, so a quick call to the care team can save a return trip.
Think about mobility and dexterity
Gifts that are easy to hold, open, and use on their own matter more than gifts that look impressive.
Label everything
A resident’s name on a blanket, player, or frame helps staff keep belongings with the right person.
Consider the room, not just the person
Space is often limited, so smaller, multi-use items tend to get more everyday use than large decor.
Giving a Gift That Keeps Giving
If you are looking for another way to brighten the season for residents and families at Gurwin, consider a year-end tribute gift to the Gurwin Jewish Healthcare Foundation in honor of a loved one. Every gift helps support programs that make moments like these possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are good holiday gifts for someone in a nursing home?
Gifts that are comforting, easy to use, and personal tend to work best: soft blankets and lap robes, photo books or digital photo frames, puzzles, favorite music, and personal care items. The most meaningful gift of all is simply spending time together.
What should I avoid when choosing a gift for a senior in long-term care?
Check with the care team before bringing food items, electronics, or anything with small parts or batteries, since every community has its own guidelines. Favor items that are easy to hold and use without assistance.
Are there gift ideas specifically for seniors living with memory loss?
Yes. Familiar music, photo books, lifelike baby dolls, and interactive companion pets can provide comfort, spark memories, and ease agitation for residents living with memory loss.
Can I give a gift to support Gurwin instead of a traditional present?
Yes. A year-end tribute gift to the Gurwin Jewish Healthcare Foundation, made in honor of a loved one, helps support the programs and services that make life brighter for residents.
The Best Gift of All
The gift of time is one of the best gifts you can give a loved one living in a long-term care facility. Sharing a laugh, a cherished memory, a warm hug, or a game of cards is a priceless gift that will be treasured long after the season ends.
