Beginning in February, there is an undeniable rush of activity as we get ready for Valentine’s Day in many facets of our life, whether at home, at work, or in school. Purchasing a Valentine’s card or gift for a loved one receiving hospice or palliative care this month may be a nice gesture, but there are a lot of other heartfelt ways to let a hospice patient know how much they mean to you. Here are five ways to show someone you care this Valentine’s Day through acts of kindness and love.
Decorate Their Room for Valentine’s Day to Brighten It Up
Giving someone a Valentine’s Day room makeover can be a thoughtful and original way to lift their spirits. Holiday-themed decorations (even outside of Valentine’s Day) are an easy way to break up the monotony that hospice patients may face sitting in their room because many hospice patients don’t get much change of scenery on a daily basis.
Before hanging your Valentine’s Day decorations, be mindful of anyone who may have a sensitivity to the color red. Your loved one will still know how much you care and will ideally find a welcome sense of comfort and cheer in their daily routine even if you need to utilize different hues like lavender or pink.
Keep up Current Holiday Traditions
It’s crucial to maintain traditions, whether it’s Valentine’s Day or another holiday, especially when offering end-of-life comfort care. The knowledge that their illness is disrupting the lives of their loved ones is among the worst emotions a hospice patient may experience. Find a way to include them in your customs on important occasions like Valentine’s Day so that you may continue the practice.
A Dose of Extra One-on-One Time
Valentine’s Day is about showing your loved ones that you care, therefore for a patient who is unable to go out on a date or purchase a card or gift for their family, it may be a very challenging day. Spend more time this month visiting a loved one who is receiving hospice care, especially on the day of the holiday. Look for strategies to extend your trips. Bring pictures, engage in board games, or request personal narratives from them. You’ll probably discover that making these pleasant memories has been as beneficial to you as it has been to them.
Create a Special Trip
Even if they are receiving hospice care, many patients can still do and experience a lot. Find something your loved one likes and schedule a Valentine’s Day date to do it together if that is the case. Visit someone they haven’t seen in a long time or take them to a favorite location. When they bring gifts to their other hospice caregivers, think about going with them. Bring the “outing” to them if they are unable to leave the house; invite a friend over, watch a movie, or prepare a special Valentine’s dinner or meal.
The Little Things Go a Long Way
Consider helping with routine care tasks as a Valentine’s Day suggestion and act of kindness because a hospice patient may find it difficult to provide personal care. Receiving services for their hair, nails, or cosmetics can be quite uplifting for people emotionally. For patients receiving care at home, try changing the bedding, cleaning the windows, or setting their bedside table clear. Sometimes helping out with even the tiniest activities may be a great way to show someone you care.