As the holiday season approaches, we often find ourselves searching for the perfect gift to give our loved ones. But what if the greatest gifts aren’t wrapped in shiny paper or tied with ribbons? We asked the members and teachers of Oakwood Creative Care’s Adult Day Clubs what they believe to be the most meaningful gift to give someone you love, and many of their answers included simple, heartfelt gestures—time spent together, a listening ear, or a shared moment of laughter. In this blog, we share some of these thoughtful gifts that bring true joy and connection to people of all ages and warm their hearts throughout the season and beyond.
What Our Members Believe is the Greatest Gift to Give…
Town Center (Downtown Mesa Adult Day Club):
Barbara: Something I made them.
Paul: Something I painted or made to eat (like tamales or apple pie).
Stu: Kindness.
Myo: You give whatever you have.
George: I’d build a box.
Scoot: Something that they needed.
Gary: Me and money.
Maggie: Something of myself. I like to give homemade things.
Cedric: Something cozy, like gloves, socks, or a beanie cap.
Tommy: I would buy them an airline ticket back home.
Jim: Love.
“I love being a part of their lives. They’re my best friends; they’re sweet, encouraging, kind, thoughtful, & full of love. Their joy gives my life purpose.”
– Edward, Town Center Club Director
Red Mountain (East Mesa Adult Day Club):
Ron: Friendship
Shirley Jo: Puppies, jewelry, love
Erick: A new bed
Hugh: Love
Lorrell: A stocking filled with candy
Bill: Lobster
Inge: True friendship
Stacy: Time together
Margaret: Peace on Earth
Judy: Peace
Milton: A doll for a girl
Jim S: Money
Gary: Pizza
Paul: Kindness and attention
“Their JOY is the greatest gift. It’s truly heartwarming to see joy on the faces of our dementia members because it reminds us that moments of happiness transcend the challenges they face. These moments are a testament to the power of connection, empathy, and understanding in improving their quality of life. Witnessing their joy not only reaffirms the importance of our care and efforts but also inspires us to continue creating meaningful experiences that bring light to their lives.”
– Heather, Red Mountain Club Director
The Perfect Place (Chandler/Sun Lakes Adult Day Club):
Linda- My time
Ferrell- Your time
Jim- Giving my wife a special gift of an experience we can have together.
Stella- if they need money, I will give them money, but not if they use it on drinks… only if they buy food.
“Creating JOY for our members is the greatest gift we could receive. Seeing their happiness fills our hearts, inspires our work, and is contagious to all of us, creating a connection throughout the club.”
– The Perfect Place Team
Did You Know?
Oakwood Creative Care is bringing back the JOY in aging! We believe a diagnosis should not have to define your life. Instead, we have devoted our mission to reigniting hope for caregivers and older adults with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other age-related challenges. Click the button below to learn more about how we do this through our research-based, cutting-edge, creative care model found at each of our Day Clubs.
