Finding meaningful, useful, and appropriate gifts for nursing home residents can be challenging. Whether the occasion is a birthday, holiday, or just because, the following options should serve to brighten their day while reassuring your loved one they are valued and cherished.

5 Gifts for Nursing Home Seniors

Your Time

All the trinkets in the world cannot replace your attention. Even a short visit can have a dramatic impact on a resident’s day. Taking an hour to have lunch, play cards, or simply catch up will bring your loved one pleasure, joy, and a sense of pride. It will also serve to break up the monotony of their daily routine.

Photos

Photos — whether framed or in an album — will help keep your loved one’s memory sharp while providing them with a sense of connectivity. They also give nursing home residents something to show off to their friends and neighbors.

Bird Feeder

Aside from bingo, word games, reading, and jigsaw puzzles, seniors spend a great deal of time looking out windows. A bird feeder will provide your loved one with hours of enjoyment, boosting their mood and keeping their mind active.

Arts & Crafts

From adult coloring books to knitting and jewelry making, there is no shortage of arts and crafts projects to gift to seniors. These activities will help keep your loved one occupied and creative while serving as a wonderful discussion starter.

Music

A familiar tune can really brighten a senior’s day. Consider loading up an iPod with a playlist of old favorites and investing in a speaker dock with a remote control. Music can easily turn an unfamiliar environment into a safe and comfortable area.

Located in Wolcott, CT, Wolcott View Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center is a full-service nursing home and hospice care facility complete with a state-of-the-art rehab center and heart and lung health program. Visit the nursing facility online or call (203) 879-8066 for more information.