It is easy to get caught up in our daily tasks, and loose sight of the love we have for one another. This is especially true for caregivers, who show their love every day by providing much needed care to their loved one. Mother Teresa is quoted as saying, "It is not about how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing." Take the opportunity this Valentine’s Day to celebrate your love!
Here are some ideas to celebrate with your care receiver:
Reminisce- look at pictures
Decorate cookies- They don’t have to be homemade.
Make homemade valentine’s day cards for grandchildren- They will cherish them.
Buy some flowers and make your own arrangement.
Order dinner and have a nice quiet dinner at home. (less stimuli for the care receiver- restaurants are usually pretty busy on this day, so it may be a good idea to call ahead and pre-order)
Pick someone that you know is a caregiver and be a “Secret Cupid” drop off chocolate, flowers or dinner for them.
Listen to love songs:
Love Me Tender-Elvis Presley
When a Man Loves a Woman-Percy Sledge
You are so Beautiful-Joe Cocker
Love Letters in the Sand-Pat Boone
You are My Sunshine-Johnny Cash
Unforgettable-Nat King Cole
I’ve got You Babe-Sonny and Cher
Stuck on You-Lionel Richie
My One and Only Love-Frank Sinatra
I Will Always Love You-Whitney Houston
Watch a favorite movie:
Casablanca (1942)
Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
Roman Holiday (1953)
Oklahoma (1955)
Love in the Afternoon (1957)
West Side Story (1961)
The Music Man (1962)
Funny Girl (1968)
What’s Up Doc? (1972)
Grease (1978)
Although these ideas are specific to spouses, they can all be adapted for children, grandchildren, and any other caregiver relationship. You wouldn't be a caregiver if you didn't love your carereceiver, Take time this Valentine's Day to celebrate that love!
