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"There are only four kinds of people in the world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver." ― Rosalynn Carter
This holiday season, it’s time to share the great gift of caring with your loved one’s personal caregiver. Whether a family member or part of a private service, these special companions have devoted their entire year to improving the quality of life for your family member, and it’s time to show your immense gratitude for their efforts.
Oftentimes in the process of caregiving, these special guardians lose sight of their own personal needs, and without proper self-care they can experience burnout, anxiety or depression, and other complications associated with the physical and emotional tolls caregiving can take.
Here are some holiday gift ideas that not only say thank you for all you do, but ones that provide some special indulgences and bonuses to make their life easier.
A Spa Package
Create a unique spa package full of special items that promote some quality “me time.” Consider including items like bath bombs, fluffy towels, a candle, a face mask, scented bath soap and lotion, a loofah, and a hand or neck massager.
Amp up the basket by including a gift certificate for a luxurious spa treatment. Prices vary by location, but here are some services to consider with typical pricing.
● Swedish Massage (60 minutes) - $90 - $110
● Manicure - $45
● Pedicure - $55
Subscription to a Fruit of the Month Club
Help your caregiver stay healthy by giving them the gift of good nutrition. Healthy eating can be difficult when you’re maintaining a busy life caring for others. Fruits have many health benefits, including reducing risk of heart disease and stroke. Simple fruits like grapefruits can treat diabetes, apples can lower your cholesterol, tangerines can boost your metabolism, and strawberries can prevent cancer. Consider one of the top-ranked fruit of the month clubs for excellent produce and service.
Maid Service
Oftentimes caregivers are so busy caring that they can overlook their own housekeeping needs. Giving a gift certificate for a day of cleaning can be a huge stress reliever. Consider adding a movie gift certificate so your caregiver can really enjoy their day off. It typically costs between $100 - $200 for a house cleaning. But make sure to check reviews so you can find the best and most reliable service provider.
Meditation Gifts
Being a caregiver can be mentally challenging, and it’s important to spend some quality time recharging. Encourage some mindfulness with meditation books, DVDs and CDs.
Gourmet Gift Basket
Plenty of companies make gourmet gifts baskets, including Harry & David and Wine Country Gift Baskets, but making your own custom basket shows just how much you really appreciate your caregiver’s efforts. Select a basket or container that can be repurposed, and fill it with sweet treats, gourmet coffees and teas, nuts, cheese and crackers, wine, and jellies and jams.
The Gift of Yoga
Caregiving can be isolating and lead to things like anxiety and depression without proper personal care, and the gift of yoga can provide an excellent therapeutic reprieve. Consider a yoga mat and a yoga DVD to promote mind and body wellness. Go the extra mile, and give a gift certificate for a month worth of classes. Yoga classes typically run around $12, so three classes a week for a month would cost $144.
Caregivers are called upon daily to tend to people in their most vulnerable states, and to do so with extraordinary empathy and patience. It isn’t an easy job, and the holidays are a perfect time to make their lives easier and encourage them to enjoy some much needed relaxation and rejuvenation. Remember, though, when you’re making their holiday extra special, one of the best gifts you can give doesn’t cost money, it’s the gift of loving support and gratitude all year long.
View similar articles at: standupforcaregivers.org