Christmas Gifts For The Family Caregiver
“There are only four kinds of people in this world—those who have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who need caregivers.” Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
Somewhere in your circle is a family caregiver. Perhaps it’s a sibling who’s caring for your aging parents. Maybe it’s a friend who spends time caring for her mother. Or it could be a coworker who needs occasional time off from work to attend matters of importance for their loved ones.
Caregivers are servants who unselfishly give their time in service of others. Many times, their efforts go unappreciated. Caregiving is hard work! Christmas is a wonderful time to recognize, thank and show appreciation for the caregivers in your life. Here’s a list of things any caregiver would be grateful to receive.
- Hand-written notes of appreciation. Carve out a bit of time to write a note. If it feels right… do it on a regular basis.
- Offer to help. Be specific, say something like “I’ll come stay for the weekend” or “I’ll take Mom to that doctor appointment next week.
- Take them out to eat and express your appreciation.
- Sit with them and just listen, without judging. Refrain from the would’ve, should’ve, could’ve of forms of advice and simply allow them to express their feelings.
- Offer to carry a portion of the burden.
- Help arrange chore services like lawn care or snow removal.
- Take on the role of tech support for phones, TVs, or tablets.
- If you’re distant – offer to take over the finances or help with enrollment in Medicare insurance programs.
6. Relieve pressure by hosting the family Christmas celebration or decorating the house.
7. Create a break for them by arranging a week or weekend of in-home care.
Caregivers need time to rest and recharge their batteries in order to continue the loving work they do. Most of these items carry little or no cost and will be deeply appreciated. Try to be of service to the family caregivers in your life.
At Alternative Senior Care, our desire is to help family caregivers along their journey. As family caregivers ourselves, we understand and identify with the personal struggles family members face when caring for their aging loved ones. Give us a call today and let us know how we can help you on your journey.
Lainie recalled her favorite subject in school was Home Economics,
“I always loved cooking, cleaning, organizing the home, and caregiving; all the things we do best at Alternative Senior Care!”
"I’ve learned a lot from my experiences for the past 30 years, caregiving for seniors, children and family members. Being a part of Alternative Senior Care is a privilege for me because I feel every day is an opportunity to find ways to bless others, especially in my own community. Overseeing our day-to-day operations at Alternative Senior Care, allows me to make sure our values and mission statement is implemented in all that we do to make each client feel safe, comfortable, and cared for in their own home. “
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