The Senior Caregiver’s Guide to Holiday Gift Giving
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for the senior caregivers in your life or a loved one aging in place, this guide is for you. We are here to provide you a template for technology and everyday gifts that keep seniors and their caregivers safe, engaged, and connected. Meaningful gifts come in many forms and we are here to share some successes.The key to gift giving is understanding what is wanted or needed.
Here is a short list of our favorite gift ideas we have had success with for the seniors in our lives.
To spark memories and feelings of inclusion: Digital Photo Frames
We all take pictures everyday! Digital photo frames are a great way for all those connected to share the daily moments with ease. We have had GREAT success with Skylight WIFI Digital Photo frame. Also, don’t forget to share the email to ALL family members so everyone can stay connected and at the click of a button share images happening in the moment. This helps create feelings of inclusion and engagement. The touch sensitive screen makes it an easy-to-use device as well.
“We loved this gift because Grandma could “like” or “heart” a picture we sent! - Kristin”
To promote safety, independence and peace of mind: The Mat of Life
Caregiver stress related to safety of loved ones is always on mind. Falls continue to rank as the number one reason for injury in the senior community. The Mat of Life is the first comprehensive AI based fall monitoring and prevention technology that connects people and streamlines care through integrated physician and therapy chats. Using a device that learns from you, keeps a community of care providers engaged and updated, and uses automated cuing for loved ones with dementia makes the Mat of Life is a good gift for the whole caregiving community.
“Mat of Life can monitor, track and address a person’s needs before a fall happens!”
To promote access to services and family: Easy-to-Use Mobile Phone or Tablet
One of the most important elements to think about when evaluating technology is the ease of use and quality of communication tools available. Phones that have large screens, big buttons, loud speakers and have additional health and safety features like app links for families, telehealth access, and connections to transport services are very successful gift options!
To engage the mind and stimulate creativity: Jigsaw or Custom Photo Puzzles
While puzzles are therapeutic, they also provide exercise in memory. In any stage of Dementia or Alzheimer's, puzzles are said to ease some of the symptoms and provide stimulating comfort, as well as provide a sense of control. Choosing a puzzle that either evokes memories or engages interests can be a great gift for caregivers or loved ones to engage in.
To calm any anxiety: Weighted Blanket
Research has shown weighted blankets can provide comfort and ease and help reduce feelings of anxiety and assist in sleep troubles! If you know a caregiver or senior who is anxious or in need of a hug, a weighted blanket or lap pad can provide a calming and soothing effect. A weighted blanket may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, so consider where appropriate.
“The weighted blanket my daughter gave me last holiday provided me the sense of feeling hugged and held - and made me think of her when using. - Carol”
To celebrate special memories: Does your loved one still have a favorite item stored away?
Recently, we saw a family take a 1928 Doll House, that has been in their grandparent’s storage for MANY years and refinish it back to its original condition (and maybe added a little extra flair). They documented this process, shared the photo book of the restoration and the final product to their loved one. It became a wonderful conversation piece filled with stories from all, a new activity for the senior, her children, and grandchildren to engage in, and evoked MUCH conversation and joy.
To promote a healthy break: Respite Relief
Stress is a constant part of the job for care providers and is overwhelming regardless of the time of year. Finding and affording reliable respite care can be stressful in and of itself. Filling this gap is a priceless gift. Many caregivers can use all the support, recognition and respite they can receive. Time away from daily responsibilities or at least some assistance with completing them can be invaluable. Reaching out for assistance for in-home care or offering your own time can be invaluable.
To promote a connection together: Quality time
More important than material gifts. Quality time – there is no better gift.
This is by far not a complete list of all the gift giving options available out there. This is a breakdown of successful items we have used, provided, and experienced. If you have any questions or need ideas for safety in your senior or care provider’s home, connect with us today!
From senior care fall strategies to online engagement and mobile app opportunities, healthcare shouldn’t be reactive - it should be proactive. Doors have been opened to on-demand healthcare and it turns out the overwhelming majority of patients, physicians, families and therapists want to continue down that path. The decision to modernize your senior care strategies is a big one and doesn’t happen overnight. Talk to the Source of Life Technologies team for the guidance and direction you need to make the change in your organization or home.
