Top Ten Gift Ideas for Long Term Care Facility Residents

For the growing numbers of senior citizens and handicapped individuals who are confined to a residential care facility, gifts can brighten the day and make life a little more pleasant. The RIGHT gifts, however, make a great difference but a little thoughtful consideration before buying a gift for someone in a residential care facility or nursing home can make a small gift into a large pleasure.

Forget traditional stand-by gifts like handkerchiefs or fuzzy slippers. Most residents will have these - or have no need for them. Boxes of chocolate or other food items are not always a good choice because there may be dietary restrictions or medical prohibitions.

The top ten gift ideas for senior citizens or others who live in a residential care faculty are simple yet practical.

For the resident who likes to stay in touch with family and friends, a supply of pre-addressed envelopes and stamps is always a welcome gift. Consider buying a roll of 100 stamps, available at the Post Office, rather than a small book because it will last much longer. Addressing the envelopes in advance makes it easier than ever to send letters or cards to special people.

In the same vein, boxes of stationary or all occasion cards are another welcome gift. Even those confined in a nursing home like to remember birthdays or other occasions and a supply of cards can help make that both possible and easy.

Most residents of a long term residential care center miss their family - even if they visit often. Consider some nice framed photographs of family members. Group portraits are nice and so are a collage made of snapshots from the extended family. Make sure pictures are displayed in a prominent area so that the resident can see them often.

Another item for the wall is a large calendar with big print and easy to read numbers. Make it personal by writing in special dates and upcoming events in bright, bold handwriting. Another way to personalize the calendar is to have one made with photographs of favorite people or places. It's simple and inexpensive but can be very special to someone confined to a nursing home.