Think back to college or even summer camp. What was one of your most beautiful memories of these incredible times? You might recall receiving a care package or two. The perfect care package should be functional and fun, making the recipient warm and fuzzy. Whether your senior loved one is in an Alzheimer’s care community or an independent senior living community, they’re sure to enjoy receiving a care package from you.
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Here are some ideas to include in your gift:
Toiletries & Personal Care Items
It’s nice to add some personal hygiene items to your package. Things like a hairbrush, toothpaste, and lotion are much appreciated, especially if they’re a bit fancier than what the senior might buy for him or herself. Opt for items with a scent you know they would enjoy, or choose unscented products if you’re unsure what is preferred.
Something Homemade
“The best gifts are often homemade.”
The best gifts are often homemade. Are you a crafter or a baker? Give some of your handmade products to your senior loved one. They may love a crocheted blanket that you created from scratch. And baked goods are always a hit, from brownies and cakes to breads and even doughnuts. Just be sure you’re aware of any dietary restrictions they may have before you send food items.
Treats
What does your care package recipient consider to be a treat? They may be a big fans of tea, chocolate, or flavored popcorn. Include some of these tasty items in your care package. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness while munching away. Your senior loved one may even share the treats with caregivers or use them to make friends at their assisted living retirement community. You’ll feed their sweet (or salty) tooth and help them make friends – everyone wins!
Hand-Written Letters or Cards
The most meaningful part of a care package can be a letter. Let the senior know about what’s going on in your family’s lives. Did your daughter score a goal in soccer last week? Maybe your son made the honor roll for hthefirst time. Share this information with the senior to keep him or her in the know about what’s happening and jog his or her memory, especially if your loved one lives in an Alzheimer’s community.
Photographs
Unless your senior loved one is tech-savvy, they probably aren’t seeing all the fun stuff you post on social media or share over emails. Place some photographs in your package to brighten the recipient’s day. Take fun shots of last week’s family bowling outing and even a picture of your trusted dog, Rusty. If the senior has Alzheimer’s, it would be particularly appreciated if you could label who is in the photo and where they are. That way, they can view them repeatedly and even study them to recall better who they are. If you live far away, this is a particularly treasured present.
Large Print Books
If your senior loved one enjoys reading, add some books to the care package. Look for large print ones to make it easy on their eyes. Find a genre they want and see what new volumes are available. Or, send a little nostalgia in the form of a book they once loved, like something from childhood. Maybe they used to read a particular book to you – include that in your care package to jog their memory.
Activity Books
Some seniors have difficulty getting around, which can prevent them from spending much time outside their room or apartment. You can help keep him or her occupied by sending some activity books in your care package. Add Sudoku, word finds, and crossword puzzles to keep his or her brain active. If possible, look for more extensive print options, as they’re more approachable to well-used eyes.
Remember to decorate the package! Wrap individual parts of the gift or add some color to the exterior with markers or glitter. Your kids can help with this! Your senior loved one will appreciate the effort and thought that went into putting together a care package.
