Last year, we created a gift guide for medically complex kids with a focus on inclusive toy companies. This year, we wanted to create something with our caregivers in mind. How will you express your love and appreciation this holiday season? We know that gratitude is a year-long endeavor, and showing your support is more about what you do in the quiet moments vs. grand holiday gestures; however, that doesn’t mean you can’t get them a meaningful or useful gift.
So often, the best gift you can give a caregiver is time — the luxury of time returned to spend as they wish, resting, recuperating, being with loved ones, and just being with their own thoughts.
Here are eight holiday gift ideas for the caregivers you know and love:
When a caregiver spends so much of their time taking care of others’ needs, especially their own child’s, preparing meals for themselves and the rest of their family can fall by the wayside. A meal subscription saves them time and money throughout the year. Even just a month’s worth of meals can make a difference.
In some cases, it’s difficult to know what kind of gift will make the most impact for a caregiver. Realistically, only they know what they need. Gift cards are a practical way to leave the decision-making up to them. If you don’t know what kind of gift card to get, consider something like a Visa gift card that can be used at their own discretion.
Sometimes, one item just isn’t enough. There are beautiful gift baskets available online, or you can create your own. Think of all the little things that would make a difference in the caregiver’s life, whether that’s a series of cleaning products to save them a trip to the grocery store, or more luxury items they can incorporate into their daily lives like tea, repairing hand cream, essential oils, a journal, candles, etc.
Most caregivers have had their fair share of hospital visits, whether overnight or for much longer. Things you might include in a hospital care package include portable chargers, books, comfortable clothing, a fleece blanket, dry shampoo, night cream, lip balm, and perhaps a scent diffuser. Scents like lavender, sandalwood, and clary sage are good for stress relief and relaxation.
Whether at the hospital or at home, noise canceling headphones are a great gift to help the caregiver in your life take a break, if only for 5 minutes. They can listen to music, books on tape, or simply slip them on when they need a moment of quiet. It’s not often that a caregiver can “check out,” so when they get that chance, they might as well have the accessories to get the most out of their break.
A tidy house isn’t necessarily on top of a caregiver’s list of concerns. It’s not that they don’t want to clean up dust and dirt, it’s that they literally don’t have the time or energy. Smart cleaning technology like the Roomba is one way for them to outsource all of that annoying and ever-present housework.
Caregivers often have a lot of medications and medical supplies to organize. In their effort to develop a functional system, a label maker can make a world of difference.
Research says that having flowers around your home can actually improve your mood and reduce stress. For caregivers, think of a flower or bouquet subscription as a reminder of all the beauty in the world, because on some days, that beauty can seem distant.
If the caregiver you’re shopping for has a child or loved one who could benefit from one of our products, whether they’re a first-time user or need a replacement, consider getting them a Gus Gear gift card. Our line includes the Central Line Vest, G-tube Wrap, Ostomy Pouch Cover, Line Covers, and other accessories. If you ever have any questions about our merchandise or how to use it, please contact us today! We wish you a most joyful holiday season, and as we inch closer to January, a very happy New Year.