Gift Ideas for Hospice Patients

The holidays are a time of joy and happiness, but for people in hospice care, the holiday season can be especially difficult. Because hospice patients are typically elderly and perhaps even bedbound, typical gifts may not be appropriate.

Even if you are unable to purchase a gift, there are many other ways that you can show your care and love for a hospice patient. Hospice patients often appreciate simple gestures such as writing a card or calling them regularly. Even if you cannot give a physical gift, please remember to take time to spend with your hospice patient. Talk about their day, listen attentively, and recognize their accomplishments. These small moments will mean the world to the patient and will help ease their transition.

Without further ado, here are 7 gift ideas for hospice patients:

1. A favorite book or magazine - hospice patients often have a lot of time to read, so a book or magazine that they can enjoy is a great gift. If your loved one has a hard time reading for long periods of time, you could give them an audiobook or two instead.

2. Food - many hospice patients find comfort in food. Consider making them a homecooked meal, or bringing them a few freezer meals. You can also create a gift basket filled with their favorite snacks.

3. Something snuggly - Elderly people find themselves feeling cold frequently. Consider gifting your loved on a soft, fuzzy blanket or some warm, cozy slippers.

4. Flowers or Plants - whether it's fresh flowers from the garden or bouquets delivered from local florists, flowers are always a popular choice for gifts given to those in hospice care. A small Christmas tree could bring some holiday cheer into their room, and also fill it with the fragrances of the season. Even something small, like a succulent in a pretty little pot can bring some life into the room.

5. A letter expressing your feelings - sending someone you love a handwritten letter expressing your thoughts and feelings about them is one of the most touching gestures you could ever make.

6. An hour spent on the phone with them - spending an hour on the phone with someone you love who is feeling sick can be incredibly therapeutic for both parties involved. Even if you live in the same town, sometimes phone calls are a bit more pleasant for your loved on in hospice, as they don’t require the patient to feel like they have to “entertain” you.

7. Something from the grandkids- homemade gifts created by little hands, like drawings and little craft projects, are a favorite gift of grandparents and great-grandparents. Even just bringing little ones over for a visit can bring joy to your loved one.

Do you have a gift idea that we didn’t mention? Share it with us in the comments!