With more than a week left to go until Christmas, most of our free time is occupied by last minute holiday decorations or holiday shopping. As a caregiver, time is always something in short supply, and always something that we could use more of.
While it might not be possible to give someone the gift of more time in the day, there are ways that the people in your life can give you the gift of time. Here are some great gift ideas for caregivers that you may not know you need:
Spa Day
When most people think of the spa, they think of massages or facial treatments and big, fluffy robes. And while that is one of the more popular gift suggestions for caregivers this time of year, it’s not always practical or affordable.
But a spa day can also mean making time to get a manicure and pedicure, or getting your hair cut and colored. Both of those activities are just as relaxing and feel like a bit of an indulgence, especially when it’s hard to make time for yourself in your day-to-day life. If getting out to the salon for these treatments seem near impossible, you can also consider giving yourself the gift of an at-home spa day.
Medical Alert Device
When it comes to gifts for caregivers, nothing beats getting some help to have more time to yourself. But in order to actually do that, it means leaving your loved one to their own devices for potentially large chunks of time. Thankfully, with a Medical Guardian medical alert device, your loved one will receive 24/7 monitoring services, allowing you the peace of mind to spend more time on yourself.
And for those caregivers who are concerned about not knowing what their parent is doing throughout the day, the new Family Guardian line of products allows you the opportunity to be more involved in a loved one’s daily medical alert monitoring. A system that combines a series of room sensors and an accessible app for caregivers in addition to the regular medical alert device neck or wrist pendant, Family Guardian will help you keep a loving and watchful eye on your aging parent without having to physically be there with them.
Vacation/Respite Care
Who wouldn’t benefit from a vacation? As one of the more expensive--and perhaps most appreciated--gift ideas for caregivers, giving someone the gift of a vacation can help to prevent caregiver burnout and, ultimately, relax. This time of year you can find great deals on cruises, Caribbean vacations and more, either online or through a travel agent.
And if you are concerned about leaving your loved one behind in order to take a vacation, you might also consider gifting them the gift of respite care. A respite care stay can actually prove to be a gift for the both of you, because your loved one gets a break from their daily routine, with specialized care along with social and extracurricular activities, and you get a much-needed break.
Gift Suggestions: Give From The Heart
No matter what your budget this holiday season, the best gifts anyone can receive are thoughtful gifts from the heart. No matter which holiday you are celebrating this year, we wish you a happy and restful experience with friends and family. You deserve it!
