12 Thoughtful Gifts for Your Caregiver

Spending a little extra time choosing a thoughtful gift to thank a home aide for all they’ve done for you or your parents or your child will show you went above and beyond to demonstrate your appreciation. Even if you have a cash gift in mind, a small (or large) “something extra” can go a long way to generate a big smile and a year full of goodwill.

Take a look at our carefully cultivated list of considerate gifts and pick what’s best for your special caregiver.

1. “A Ticket To Ride” (Train, Taxi, Bus, Or Subway Fare)

How does your caregiver travel locally? If they use public transportation, consider a monthly bus pass, train ticket, subway card, or even a ride-hailing or taxi account. Free travel = freedom to travel.

2. “Paperback Writer” (A Favorite Book Or Series)

Whether it’s the Bible she likes to read or he’s working his way through his favorite author’s latest trilogy, finding the right book or books is a personal way to show you’re paying attention to your caregiver’s interests.

Quick Tip: Choosing a Book for Someone Else

3. “Nights On Broadway” (Dinner & A Show)

Help your caregiver spend time off with friends or loved ones. Dinner for 4 plus movie tickets or tickets to Broadway makes for a fun night out any time of year.

Quick Tip: Where to Buy Broadway Tickets

4. “Let There Be Peace On Earth” (Religious Symbols

Religious and cultural celebrations cover everything from Christmas and Chanukah to Kwanzaa, and Ramadan, and more. What’s a nice way to enhance your caregiver’s holiday observances or year-round religious practices?

Consider a custom ornament with a photo of you & your caregiver, a box of handmade specialty candles, a prayer rug, or a homemade gift in the Kwanzaa tradition.

5. “Talking ‘Bout The Car Wash” (A Sparkling Clean Car)

Does your caregiver have a car? Auto detailing is a real treat, taking care of everything from shampooing the car’s carpeting to cleaning out the glove compartment and shining the wheel rims.

6. “You Light Up My Life” (The Gift Of YOU)

What special talent can you gift to your caregiver? A gift of your time and effort would be especially appreciated, so be creative – you likely have more to offer than you think.

Some ideas to get you thinking:

• Prepare your caregiver’s taxes
• Teach her to use a computer
• Give him guitar lessons
• Knit him a sweater
• Be a handyman for a day at her house
• Tutor his child

Be creative — you’re sure to come out with something special!!

7. “Pennies From Heaven” (Warehouse Club Membership)

Who doesn’t love to save money? Helping your caregiver buy in bulk and at a discount, will be a gift that’s appreciated all year ‘round. Sam’s Club, Costco, or BJ’s has locations nationwide – find one close to your caregiver’s home and they start saving right away..

Quick Tip: How to Choose a Warehouse Club

8. “Freeze Frame” (Picture Me Anywhere)

Take photos of your loved one with his or her favorite caregivers and send them off to become a personalized photo mug, photo stainless steel water bottle, photo tree ornament, or even photo pot holders and ceramic photo coasters. They'll never forget you with this long-lasting memory.

Quick Tip: Picking the Right Coffee Mug

9. “Call Me” (Smartphone, Tablet, Or Laptop)

Keep your caregiver up to date with the latest electronics and they’re sure to stay connected to friends, family – and you.

Quick Tip: Comparing Laptops and Tablets

10. “On The Road Again” (Driving Lessons)

Sending your caregiver to driving school benefits her — and you — and adds another important skill to her resume. Even if he or she doesn’t buy a car, knowing how to drive is a surefire career booster.

11. “Leaving On A Jet Plane” (An Airline Ticket Home)

If you’re able to financially manage a gift like this, what a treat for your caregiver, whether “home” is a few states away or in another country.

Quick Tip: Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Flight Online

12. “These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things” (Your Caregiver’s Favorite)

This is something we can’t define for you, but you’ll know it if you think about it!

• Does your caregiver love sweets? Put together a “tower” of chocolates and cakes.
• Is he a stamp collector?
• Does she cherish porcelain dolls?
• Does she have a favorite sports team?
• Is he a fan of black-and-white movies?

Whatever it is, find a way to use your inside knowledge to give a specially tailored gift.

For more insightful input about home care, check out LeanOnWe’s no-nonsense guide to home care.

If you are looking for a direct-hire, private caregiver in metro New York-New Jersey-Connecticut, we invite you to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our caring, experienced Care Advisors.