Discussions

I'm looking for Christmas gift ideas for family in a nursing home. Already do the clothes for birthdays and I have a meal with them once a week. Did hit it out of the park with a windup music box for one of them a few years ago but am drawing a blank this year. Suggestions please.

Blankets that are for a single bed or lap blankets, grippy socks if they are mobile. Toiletries . Just depends on mobility and interests

Book the family room at the Personal Care Home and bring your relatives favourite restaurant meals in for a "picnic". Use Coupon type cards with their favourite restaurants on it and then they can pick which restaurant food they want that month. Tins filled with their favourite Christmas cookies and chocolates. Find an easy to use MP3 player and have downloaded some of their favourite music (depends if your relative can stand earbuds in their ears and has the dexterity to push the buttons on the MP3 player). Large Print books. Not expensive Broaches for each monthly celebration (Christmas, New Years, Valentine's Day, St Patrick's Day etc) . Small bouquet of flowers delivered each month. Stuffed animals that play music when their paw is squeezed. Themed socks - again that celebrate the different celebrations of the year. Medium sized Stuffed animals. Classic movies if they have a TV in their room that can hook up to a DVD player and can use a remote easily without getting frustrated. Pay for extra Cable TV channels that they enjoy. Subscription to a magazine. Calendar in a theme they like (ie Dogs, Cats, Horses, Churches etc). Mini christmas tree that lights up (optic type lights).

I think that the most precious gifts for any senior would be time and memories. As you are already generous with your time, why not give a few coupons for an extra visit on occasions when they feel the need (staff could call you for a cash in). Create a memory book with family photos. It could also include hand written stories from family and friends about shared experiences or special occasions.

I enjoy personal gifts such as pictures on blankets, pillows, mugs and calendars. Likely they will too. I use www.collage.com, they have sales frequently