Although December and birthday are traditional times for gift-giving, people love to get presents all year around. What better time is there to surprise your loved one with a gift than in the cold months of winter?
 
But what should you consider when you're choosing a gift for someone in a healthcare facility or small apartment? 

• Space is limited. If your loved one has spots for knick-knacks, they probably already have them filled with mementoes from the past. Don't add clutter.

 

• The facility might have limitations. Check with the manager, director or assisted living facility before selecting things like candles, throw rugs, or gifts of food. The recipient's medical condition could make a difference, too.

 

• If many people enter your loved one's room, they may feel anxious about having expensive or breakable items around.

 

• Some things wear out or run out. Lotions can dry up, t-shirts can get overstretched, puzzle pieces go missing. Keep an eye on things that your relative already has to see if those should be replaced or refreshed.

 
If asked, your loved one will probably say, "I don't need a thing," but who doesn't like getting a new book or puzzle, seasonal-flavor lip balm, or fresh colored pens to write a quick note of thanks? A warm throw-blanket or fuzzy socks provide comfort and color. Best of all, your presence and attention will be well-received.
 
Charlene Frazier
Community Coordinator
residentservices.600@gmail.com
www.residence600.com
600 E. Elm
Salina KS 67401
(785) 822-1300
 

Happy New Year! Many people, in many languages, exchange this greeting. In some countries or religions, the "new year" doesn't start on January first, but whenever it starts, a fresh year can be a new beginning.
 
To celebrate 2022, many people in the United States will watch a certain holiday movie or parade. Sporting events are important in the celebrations of some. In New York City's Times Square, the shiny ball has dropped at midnight since 1907. A kiss at midnight, a traditional toast, and singing "Auld Lang Syne" are other customs frequently observed in our country. 
 
In some cultures, households feast on round or circle-shaped foods, like oranges and small cakes, to symbolize long life and good health. Before the clock strikes twelve in Spain, people will try to eat twelve grapes. Eating rice indicates prosperity in India and Pakistan. Apples dipped in honey are part of the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah. In the American South, the custom is to eat black-eyed peas for good luck.
 
Latin Americans who want to travel in the next year, will walk around the block with a suitcase on New Year's Eve, while others will clean the house for a bright start. The Greeks sing special carols, and Danish people jump over the threshold right into the new year. Chinese New Year includes fireworks, lanterns and dragon parades. In Brazil, wearing white for the new year is thought to bring good fortune. The Dutch plunge into the freezing North Sea. 
 
No matter what the tradition, everyone tries to look ahead with optimism, hoping that the troubles of the old year will be washed or rung or swept away, while something clean and good will bring future happiness.
 
Here's to a great new year!
 
Charlene Frazier
Community Coordinator
residentservices.600@gmail.com
www.residence600.com
600 E. Elm
Salina KS 67401
(785) 822-1300