Being in a nursing home is one of the most complicated and difficult situations that the elderly find themselves in. Nobody enjoys being cooped up in a tiny room with very little opportunity to get out and about. Realizing the frustration and anxiety that this brings is the key to choosing an excellent gift. Here are several excellent gift ideas that you might consider giving to someone in a nursing home:
1. Flowers - Anyone that is in a nursing home will appreciate a little piece of the outdoors to brighten up their day. Flowers are very easy to take care of, and will bring days and days of joy to any nursing home resident.
2. A Radio/CD Player - If they do not already have one, this is one of the top gifts that you can give to a nursing home resident. It will bring them joy both for the music, as well as the talk radio and news that it can give. Try to find a model that has a ear plug option if the resident shares a room with someone else.
3. Picture Collage - This is a great gift that can truly help the nursing home resident feel closer to their family. Make a collage that includes all of the family members, and special times over the years. The picture will be a source of pleasure for many years.
4. Paint-By-Numbers - These great little time passers are tons of fun at any age, and would make a great recreational gift idea for anyone. This can help to pass the time, and will leave behind a great picture when they are done to hang on the wall as well.
5. A Good Book - Nothing is better than a book by their favorite author. Find a couple of nice books, and put them in a gift basket to make a great gift idea.
6. DVD Player - A great movie is something that every person can enjoy, and a DVD player can deliver them anytime they wish. Get them a DVD player along with a couple of their favorite movies for another great gift idea.
7. Personal Services - Every nursing home resident would love to have their hair, nails, and feet done by a professional. The one on one attention is something that they often get precious little of, and they would surely enjoy the companionship. If it is a woman in the nursing home, hair and nails are quite popular. Men enjoy getting a fresh shave and haircut now and then, and especially love the conversation that it brings.
The important thing to remember about gift ideas for people in nursing homes is that they are often feeling as though they are alone. Try to consider this as you look around for gift ideas. Things that help them feel more at home, and that put them in contact with others are great ideas. Of course, the best gift for someone in a nursing home is a visit and a hug from you. Do your best to spend time with them, and the gifts will be yours as well.
Image Credited To Flickr User J. Star
I was recently given a copy of the CD “Your Songs” by Harry Connick, JR. As soon as I listened to it I knew who would truly enjoy his music. I brought it to work with me the next day and played it for the residents on our memory care unit. His CD includes many songs that gave our residents an opportunity to reminisce about songs & singers from years gone by, such as “Some Enchanged Evening”, “Can’t Help Falling In Love With You”, and “Mona Lisa”. This would be a great gift for a loved one in a long-term care center who enjoys music!
Comment by Diane L. — October 10, 2009 @ 5:07 pm