Older people often need assistance with tasks like getting to appointments and tying their shoes. The people who provide these vital services range from nurses and doctors to hospice care staff and family members. If there is someone helping your senior loved one, take time to thank them. Older individuals, especially those in memory care or who have Alzheimer 's, often don't remember to be gracious when asking for assistance, so it's nice to hear "thanks" from someone else. Here are a few ideas for showing your appreciation to these amazing individuals:
Thank-you card
You don't have to spend much money to show someone you are thankful. A simple card with heartfelt wording is a wonderful idea. Send a thank-you to your loved one's assisted living community or specific staff members who you feel have really made a difference in transitioning your friend or family member from independent living to his or her new memory care unit.
Send flowers
A floral arrangement can really brighten someone's day. Send one to the community where your loved one lives and address it to the staff. Include a card of thanks along with the flowers so the staff knows why you've sent them. The flowers will likely be displayed prominently in an entryway or other public space for both residents and staff to enjoy, and the caregivers can be proud of his or her hard work.
Donate in someone's name
Most senior living communities accept donations from the public. If your loved one lives somewhere with professional caregivers, consider donating to the community in his or her name. You can add your thank you to the donation and that individual will be recognized for his or her compassionate work.
Give the gift of specialty beverages
What's better to send to a caretaker than something that makes him or her feel comfy? Specialty drinks like coffee and tea are much appreciated and a great way to say thanks. If you're unsure if the community has a coffee grinder or the equipment to brew loose-leaf tea, include these items in your package. The caregiver can bring them home to enjoy or keep the gift at work for some peaceful downtime in the break room.
Provide a testimonial
If your loved one resides in memory care assisted living or another senior community, you can thank caregivers by providing a testimonial. Your words of appreciation will not only warm the heart of the person you're thanking, but they may also help the community to portray how helpful the staff are to people considering moving there. Mention that you'd like to provide a testimonial to the front desk staff the next time you visit, and they'll put you in touch with the best person to talk to. If you know someone who is trying to decide what assisted living community to introduce his or her older loved ones to, tell that person about your positive experiences. This is another way to say thanks for the great care your family or friend has received.
Take over some care duties for a day
If your loved one receives help from an in-home caregiver, or if another friend or family member is the one taking care of the senior, offer to take over his or her duties for a few hours, or even for the day. This will give the person a break, and you can spend time with your loved one. You may be surprised how intimate and memorable helping someone clean his or her apartment or eat a meal can be. Thank and provide the caregiver with a few hours off to spend some time with his or her own family or to relax elsewhere.
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