Do you have a friend or family member who is a full-time caregiver? Or part-time? The holidays are just around the bend, and it’s time to start making those lists. But what to get that person who may not have time to enjoy the latest gadget or tickets to the movies? Here are just a few suggestions.
Gift of Time
Are you able to take over for the caregiver for a few hours? If you know their caree well enough and are okay with taking over for your friend (or family member), give them a few hours off. They can do with it what they choose – errand running, visiting a friend, taking a nap. Just try to emphasize that the time should be spent doing something for them. Or, if the caregiver has a backup person they often use, and you can pay for that person to come in for one extra session, that’s a great gift, too.
Meals
Have them over for dinner, specifically on a night when you know they’re free. Or take them out to lunch, again when you know they’re able to take off for a bit. Or if they can’t find the time to get away, bring them some coffee and a croissant, and sit and chat with them and their caree. You can offer any of these treats by creating a coupon, or even a homemade coupon book.
Books
On TotalHomeCareSupplies.com’s Pinterest page, we have a whole board devoted to books that are about and for caregivers. It’s a way of saying “I may not understand what you’re going through, but here’s someone who does.” Bonus – get two copies of the book and offer to read it with them, so they have someone with whom to discuss the content.