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Sirena - that's good advice. I think our best gift so far as a cushion my sister had printed with a photo of her grandchildren. I think Mummy did vaguely realise who they were and it was a great talking point with the staff. We also do clothes, plants for her room and toiletries. Cake all round on her birthday, just before xmas - I try to make enough for all resident and staff.@Helly68 that has reminded me, it was my mother's first Christmas in a CH last year, and I asked one of the senior carers what to do about presents. She suggested I give my mother one or two presents when I was there on Xmas Eve, and then leave the others in her wardrobe so that the carer doing her personal care the next morning could open them in her room. So that's what I did. I found that the concept of present-opening had completely deserted her, so I had to open them, and she seemed a bit baffled. None of it really meant anything to her. I give her clothes and toiletries - so, things which are useful - and a cuddly toy to add to her collection (she must have at least 30 now).
I also take in a gift for the staff - I think I took in a bag of chocolates last year.