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Christimas gifts for loved ones in nursing homes
Dear Muriel:
I have parents, aunts, uncles and friends in nursing homes this year; please provide gift ideas.
Sincerely,
Out of Ideas
Dear Out of Ideas,
Individuals who live in nursing homes are grateful to be remembered during this special time of the year and every day.
Some of the following gift ideas will continue to give long after the holiday season has passed. You will notice that some of the suggested items will be “gender friendly,” appropriate for male and female elders.
Soft Items: Christmas booties with skid proof bottoms/soft slippers/socks/and all occasion white socks (generally without dye and easy to match when laundered) pattern pillows with the elder’s name or names of family members (grandchildren)/blankets /lap afghans/robes/ pajamas/sweats/stuffed animals/dolls with outfits; some elders enjoy dressing and re-dressing these items. Elders enjoy their own personal tissue packs and always include a box of pop-up tissue for the night stand.
Food: Always check with the director of nursing or the administrator before bringing food to elders. Many residing in nursing homes are on special and or restricted diets. A modified version of a particular food will probably be fine, i.e. Christmas cookies, cakes, etc., made with one or more of the healthier food substitutes will satisfy many diet requirements without eliminating the taste of a “sweet cookie.”
Other Items: Large print books/books on tape/magazine subscriptions/magnifying glass/ portable CD player with headphones (don’t forget the CDs and the batteries)/gift certificates for hair and shopping inside and outside of their home (nursing home), crossword puzzles/jigsaw puzzles (large pieces). Elders needing the assistance of walkers for ease in mobility may also enjoy receiving a new Walker Bag that are attached to the walker and allow elders to take personal items with them as they maneuver through the halls or attend activities.
Jewelry is always a favorite of the ladies and the gentlemen. Remember music boxes (preferably the ones that play music when opened rather than ones that must be wound up to play), and update the pictures from the family/favorite pet and take a look at the new touch photo picture frames, (some change pictures with a touch).
Do not rule out computer games and computers, including lap tops, for sharing the latest vacation pictures.
Perfume/cologne/favorite soaps, heavy lotion/creams to soften skin, toothbrushes/toothpaste, mouthwash, and money clips/wallets and purses.
Outings: Enjoy Christmas community activities, i.e. taking in the sites of the holidays. If possible, eat out at a favorite restaurant.
Special trips to the hairdresser may include a manicure and pedicure. (If necessary share with manicurist special instructions.) Do not forget the camera.
Always respect the rights of elders. Include them in planning outings that will require discussions with administration. (It is in the best interest of all involved to discuss with administration any time an elder leaves the nursing home). Check with your church or churches in the area for dates and times of special Christmas services.
Your Time: If you do not have loved ones in a nursing home adopt two or three elders who are without friends or family and for an added bonus celebrate with them their birthdays and include the celebration of other special days. Remember, don’t stress out over gift buying for your loved ones — your presence and time spent with them means more than any gift you could purchase. Today and every day you are the best gift.
Staff: Remember staff: They have the primary responsibility for the care of your loved ones. Remember them collectively with maybe a fruit basket — think about including other family members to share their ideas in this effort of appreciation.
As you bring additional items into the nursing home, i.e., clothing, gifts, remember to add these to the Elder’s Inventory Sheet. This sheet remains in the Elders chart and provides a record of his/her personal belongings. Always ask for a copy for your records.
Blessings and joy to you and your loved ones as we once again share in the joyful celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
You can send questions to Muriel c/o The Messenger at cathnews@bellevillemessenger.org. If you have nursing home questions or concerns contact your Regional LTC Ombudsman Brenda Acoff at 618-398-0958 Ext. 210.