‘Tis the season for gift-giving!
At this time of the year, some care workers are scratching their brains trying to figure out what to give their clients to spread some holiday cheer and inclusion. But it can be hard to work out a gift to get that won’t break the bank but will also make clients smile.
Depending on the relationship you have with your clients, you may already have an idea of what they would like or what they might need, but what if you’re not sure what to get?
Don’t fret, we have you covered.
Everyone usually loves getting creative, regardless of their skill level, but keeping your brain active in a fun way is something valuable too.
Think note pads, calendars, pens, and colouring in books.
It’s important to consider your clients’ abilities when choosing a gift, but giving them a cost-effective and creative outlet is a nice way to not only encourage creativity but also offer an activity for those with limited mobility.
Word find, crossword and sudoku puzzle books are now commonly printed with large fonts and pages for older people, so they may be a great choice for clever clients or those who could use a little mental stimulation.
A wholesome novel for those who can still make out small print could be the perfect gift.
Alternatively, physical puzzles or board games such as Scrabble could be another option for those who entertain visitors or simply want some tranquil alone time.
If you’ve wandered the supermarkets recently, you would have noticed the prices of some toiletries have skyrocketed.
For clients living solely on a pension, these things may be considered luxuries and are the perfect gift to give!
A shaving pack with a few razors and some shaving cream could be a practical and helpful gift, but items such as body sprays, lotions, a pretty hair comb, hankies or some hand cream are also good options.
The weather is warming up – does your client have a stainless steel water bottle or tumbler to keep their drinks cool? Maybe that could be on your gift radar.
However, it is important to consider clients with sensitive skin or any known allergies when picking out certain toiletries. You could ask them if they are allergic to any ingredients or maybe consider fragrance-free options when it comes to lotions and hand creams.
In today’s society, a new pair of festive pyjamas is a common purchase in the lead-up to the holidays – why should our clients miss out?
Maybe your client needs a new pair of summer or winter PJs, a new dressing gown or a pair of slippers.
Plenty of department stores currently have festive apparel in stock for a reasonable price – whether that’s a T-shirt, a pair of socks or bottoms.
If you do choose to go down the clothing route, be sure to consider the ergonomics of the garments.
For those who use incontinence pads, look for elasticated seams to help them (and you) get them on and off with ease. Similarly, for slippers, consider their mobility and safety. A pair that is fully enclosed with a velcro strap to prevent them from slipping off while moving is worth keeping in mind.
There is a high chance you are the person your client interacts with the most on a daily or weekly basis, particularly in residential care.
You may already have a really strong bond with them, or the festive season can act as a great catalyst for finding out more about them and building that relationship!
What do they like to snack on? Do they have a favourite packet of biscuits or chocolates (dietary requirements considered)?
Look around their room or home – what may be missing? A nice blanket, a nice-smelling reed diffuser, a plushie or a fun poster of their favourite thing up on the wall could brighten up their space and their mood.
Have they mentioned wanting some new scented draw liners or a wardrobe hanger? How about a CD or DVD of their favourite artist to play on the television or in their CD player?
Particularly for those in residential care, a personalised mug or keyring with their name on it could add that personal touch while also providing a label for their belongings which prevents them from getting lost.
The holiday season isn’t always a fun time for those with little to no loved ones, so giving a gift – no matter how big or small – could make more difference than you know.
In saying this, it is advised to speak to your workplace about gift-giving policies between staff and clients and whether there are any rules or conditions in place for these instances.
