With the holidays approaching, people who receive home care service may wonder if it is appropriate to give their caregiver a gift.
In fact, there is no set protocol for giving gifts to caregivers on special occasions. Some people feel comfortable buying a present for their home care workers; others believe that giving a gift is inappropriate and too intimate of an action. Ultimately, it is up to each client to decide whether or not he or she wants to give the caregiver a present for the holidays. If they do decide to buy a present, they may enjoy knowing that they do not have to buy something fancy or expensive to convey their appreciation for the caretaker’s services.
Sometimes it is the simplest of gifts that show a person’s genuine gratitude for this worker’s care.
Because a caregiver spends hours each day helping others, this individual might enjoy receiving a gift certificate to a local salon or spa. He or she can get a haircut, pedicure, massage, or some other service to make him or her feel better. These gift certificates generally do not cost a lot, but provide the gift’s recipient with hours of enjoyment.
Likewise, caregivers may enjoy receiving gift cards to their favorite stores or restaurants.
Gift cards can usually be purchased for any dollar amount and are good for up to a year after they are purchased. People who get gift cards for the holidays enjoy using these gifts at their convenience and at places they prefer. Clients who want to show their gratitude may choose to buy a card to their caretakers’ favorite restaurant or retail store.
If they want to give a present that can be wrapped up in gift paper, people might consider buying their caregivers favorite shampoo, cologne, or other body care product. Such a present shows that the client has taken effort to choose something that will appeal to the caretaker and that this present is something that can be enjoyed outside of work. Similarly, during the winter months, people’s hands and faces become dry because of the cold weather. Clients may buy lotions for their caregivers to use to take care of their skin during the winter months.
Giving a caregiver a gift during the holidays can be a way to appreciation for this home care worker’s services. The gifts can be simple and affordable.
Home care counselors at Safe at Home Healthcare are available to talk with you about your home care needs including how to reduce caregiver stress while providing better, affordable care, including live-in care. We are an elder care agency providing home care in Aurora, IL. For more information about home care call us at (888) 703-5287.