Popularity can have consequences. Proprietary eponyms are proof of that. As Wiktionary explains, a proprietary eponym is a trademark that is used to refer to an entire generic type of item. If you’ve ever dubbed any old hook-and-loop fastener Velcro or requested a facial tissue by asking for a Kleenex, then you’ve used a proprietary eponym. Oddly enough, the term care package is another example. According to Smithsonian Magazine, a relief organization originally called the Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe trademarked the term as part of its campaign to send packages to war-torn countries in the wake of World War II. While the program eventually faded away, the term care package has only grown in popularity. Today, families often send care packages to those they love when they can’t visit them as often as they’d like, so it’s no wonder that people are often searching for care package ideas for seniors.
Ingenious Care Package Ideas for Seniors
The recipe for the perfect care package is elusive. Rather than settling for cookie-cutter fillings, you’ll want to pick items that the recipient will enjoy. You’ll also want to think carefully about practical matters like size and weight. While you may not be concerned about shipping costs, you do want your loved one to be able to safely handle the package when it arrives on their doorstep. With those factors in mind, choose a box, and decide which of these care package ideas for seniors should go inside it:
Tasty Treats
People love to gather around the table, and when we can’t be together, the gift of favorite foods or beverages can be a welcome echo of warm memories. Shelf-stable beverage mixers like teas, hot chocolates, ciders, and coffees travel well and delight the taste buds. Cookies and crackers are always popular. Specialty deliveries of meats, cheeses, or fruits can be fun and exciting. And of course, chocolates, candies, and other desserts are sure to delight.
Toiletries
Pamper your senior with luxurious lotions, creams, or shampoos, or indulge them with gift cards to the salon or store. For the more practical-minded elder, provide staples of their favorite brands. They’ll appreciate having extras on hand.
Brain Games
Harvard Health Publishing reports that participating in various brain games may help seniors improve certain brain skills and could help them maintain overall brain health. That means no list of care package ideas for seniors would be complete without a mention of thought-provoking tasks like crossword puzzles, sudoku games, word searches, card games, and jigsaw puzzles. Pens, pencils, colored pencils, and coloring books are also good options. Tech-friendly seniors might also enjoy computer games or video games.
Hobby Fuel
Is your favorite senior a fan of crocheting or knitting? Do they love woodworking? Is gardening a passion? Can they spend hours reading, sewing, painting, or baking? Providing tools or supplies for the activities that your loved one loves is always a great way to show that you care.
Comfort Cues
You may not be able to mail a hug, but you can send items designed to make the person you care about feel more comfortable. A luxurious robe or housecoat or soft pajamas can be a reminder to relax. Cozy slippers with nonslip grip or slipper socks can keep toes warm while helping your loved one avoid slips and falls. A task lamp or magnifying reading lamp can make work or play easier on the eyes. A wireless charging stand for their cellphone or tablet that eliminates the need to wrestle with cords and ports eases frustration and just might make it easier to stay in touch.
A Personal Touch
Treats and gizmos are great, but there’s nothing better than a personal touch. Whether it is a photograph, a handwritten note, or something handmade, an item that could only come from you is sure to be the highlight of the care package.
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With so many great care package ideas, it’s easy to fill a box. In fact, you may find that your box is overflowing. If so, why not consider making these care packages a regular event?
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