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Distance doesn't dilute the need for long distance caregivers to connect with their aging relatives over the holidays, or at any other time, for that matter.
We've rounded up some creative and health-promoting ideas to show your loved ones that you care.
Five caring items to send a senior:
Flowers.
Many studies have shown that caring for plants can help lower blood pressure and alleviate mild depression. Send flowers that haven't bloomed yet so your relative can enjoy nurturing a colorful bunch of bulbs. Amazon has all kinds of flowers and different sized pots to choose from.
A care package.
Who wouldn't want to receive a box filled with items that show you're thinking of them? Whether it's for a birthday, just thinking of you or a changing season, you can pick and choose exactly what you'd like to send them. For example, you can help them stay comfortable during the winter with a cold season care package which could include the following:
- Emollient hand cream, facial moisturizer and body lotion for drying skin.
- Cozy blanket and socks.
- Magazines or a good book. Any form of screen-free entertainment can be a refreshing surprise such as puzzles, crossword books, adult color books.
- Mentholated lozenges and slippery elm tea will soothe sore throats.
- Chamomile tea promotes relaxation.
- Mug with a witty, nostalgic or inspirational message.
- Add honey for the tea and eucalyptus essential oil for soothing baths and vaporizer inhalations.
- Their favorite candy or snack items.
- Or gift cards to treat them to a food delivery service such as DoorDash.
Scented candles or a diffuser.
Send scented candles. Aromatherapists maintain that scents such as lavender, jasmine and rose help change brain waves to relaxing rhythms.
A virtual greeting.
Email is a great way to keep in touch. Send free e-greeting cards through sites like sendwishonline.com for the holidays. They even have the ability to send a group card where multiple individuals can sign a personal message on the same card.
A handwritten note or letter.
If your loved ones don't have access to email or you think they would appreciate receiving something in their mailbox, send them a handwritten note, letter or postcard. Consider including pre-addressed, pre-stamped postcards or envelopes containing one sheet of paper so they can write you easily and quickly whenever they feel like it.
By: adapted from an article by ThirdAge