Photos from the family, straight to the TV in their room
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Gift guide

Gift ideas for Nana or Poppa in a rest home

Buying for a grandparent in care is tricky: space is limited, they may not need more “things”, and what they really want is time with family. Here are ideas that actually get used, from small comforts to gifts that keep the family close.

Comfort

  • A soft throw blanket or lap rug
  • Warm non-slip slippers or bed socks
  • A cosy dressing gown
  • A good hand cream or lip balm
  • A cushion for their favourite chair

Treats

  • Their favourite biscuits, chocolates or lollies (check any dietary needs with the staff first)
  • Nice tea, a special mug that’s easy to hold
  • NZ honey or a jar of good jam
  • Fresh flowers or an easy-care pot plant

Things to do

  • Large-print books, puzzles or crosswords
  • Audiobooks or a simple radio
  • A jigsaw with big pieces
  • Colouring books and pencils
  • A bird feeder outside the window, if the rest home allows

Family and memories

  • A printed photo book, with names written under each face
  • A calendar with family birthdays and photos
  • A recorded message or song from the grandkids
  • A framed photo of the whole family

The gift that keeps arriving

A Resthome TV subscription turns the TV in their room into a window on the family. After the presents are opened, the photos, videos and messages keep coming, from every grandchild, cousin and friend, all year. It’s $169 per year, and you can give it as a gift from the whole family.

Questions

What do you buy someone in a rest home who has everything?

Time and connection. Visits, calls and a steady stream of family photos and news usually mean more than another object. Small comforts and treats are good too.

What about a big birthday party for Nana?

For an 80th or 90th, our sister site Wishcast (myqr.co.nz/tv-slideshow) makes a slideshow of photos through the years that plays on any TV at the party.

Can I give Resthome TV as a gift?

Yes. Set it up in their name, connect their TV on your next visit, and share the send link with the family.

What’s a good Christmas or Mother’s Day gift for Nana in care?

Something personal and practical: a photo book with names, a cosy blanket, her favourite treats, or a subscription that sends her family photos all year.

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Tonight, Nana could be looking at the grandkids.

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