While this is a repeat of a blog from several years ago, it may be a help to some of you as we enter this holiday season. The best gift that you can give to a nursing home resident is a visit. If you cannot visit or want to do something extra for the holidays or their birthday, the following is an adaptation of a list published by the California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform in the winter of 2011.

• A new pair of slippers or a robe in a favorite color.
• A gift certificate for a haircut, massage, or manicure.
• Recent pictures of family and friends in an album, frames, or a bulletin board.
• Video record a family event that the resident was unable to attend and enjoy watching it with them.
• A subscription to a favorite magazine or newspaper.
• Crossword or word search books. (Perhaps in large print.)
• A personal television for the resident’s room or wireless headphones for their television.
• A wireless reading device.
• Quilt or lap blanket.
• Regular deliveries of flowers.
• Plant.
• Tote bag for walker or wheelchair.
• Luxury toiletries.

* The information contained in this Blog is intended for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or an opinion of counsel.