Performing acts of kindness, providing comfort, and being aware of the needs of others are just a few ways you can show how much you care. Expressing these feelings through the sending of senior care packages is a thoughtful way to make their day.
Are you wondering what to put in a care package for a senior? Explore the ideas below for inspiration!
Care Package Delivery Considerations
One of the top questions to ask when putting together a care package for a senior is: How will you send the care package? Is it a long-distance package that requires mailing, or can you personally deliver it? If it is the former, be sure to use a sturdy box and packing tape. Keep in mind that fragile items like cookies or other delicate baked goods may not stay fresh or intact by the time they reach their destination.
If you can deliver the package or have someone drop it off for you, consider a decoratively wrapped gift basket filled with goodies. Most seniors would love to receive a gift basket, especially if they’re going through a tough time!
If you need ideas or help putting one together, there are several websites where you can purchase a pre-made care package and have it delivered to your loved one’s home.
What to Put in Senior Care Packages
When you’re considering what to put in a care package for your loved one, first evaluate what they enjoy and what they’re able to do.
ENGAGING ACTIVITIES
Is the senior confined to a bed or chair? Add entertainment-related gifts to focus your loved one’s attention on fun, such as a subscription to a streaming service or gift cards to Amazon or Barnes & Noble so they can order audiobooks, e-books, physical books, magazines, and other items.
You can also send your loved one activities such as books, puzzles, games, adult coloring books, or sketchpads and pencils. These types of activities also help keep your loved one cognitively sharp.
FAVORITE FOODS
Some of the most comforting items to put into a care package for a loved one are their favorite foods. Include cookies, snacks, teas, hot cocoa packets, fruits, or wine to put a smile on their face. For an extra special touch, include an offer to cook a home-cooked meal for them.
Does your loved one enjoy cooking? Send them a cookbook and apron in the care package! There are several food services, such as Hello Fresh or Blue Apron, that will enable your loved one to make a delicious, healthy meal without the stress of grocery shopping and meal planning.
COMFORT ITEMS
Who doesn’t want to feel warm and comfortable? Try including items such as a scented candle, lip balm, small pillow, blanket, slippers, or robe in the care package. For extra comfort during the colder months, include warm socks, a sweater, gloves, and a winter hat.
MEANINGFUL GIFTS
Often the most meaningful gifts are scrapbooking supplies, photos, handwritten notes, gifts from grandchildren, digital photo frames, photo albums, and handmade items. These are the items that are sure to hold a lot of meaning and put a smile on your loved one’s face.
OUTDOOR GIFTS
If your senior likes to be outdoors, items such as wind chimes and gardening supplies are quite meaningful. Plus, gardening has several benefits for seniors, such as physical activity and stress relief.
Need inspiration for what to put in senior care packages focused on gardening? Hats, gloves, plant pots, watering cans, and even gift cards to lawn and garden stores are perfect gifts!
EXERCISE ITEMS
If your senior likes to exercise, items such as an exercise mat, resistance bands, and squeeze balls for hand therapy are meaningful and beneficial for their physical health.
You can create a care package centered on a theme (e.g., movie night, summertime, or self-care) or mix and match all sorts of items your loved one would enjoy. Whatever you decide, the real gift is the knowledge that someone is thinking of them!
For more gift-giving ideas and other senior living topics, visit our blog!
