After just going through this experience with a close family member (she was a stand-in Mom for my DD when we were stationed away from her right after my DGS was born): she spent several weeks in a nursing home and I can testify to the fact that these older folks NEED COMPANY MORE THAN THINGS!!!! It was an experience that profoundly affected me and has prompted me to try to ease the situation where I live. So I agree with rj's DIL about the importance of visitors for these folks...and, if we can add something to the visit in the way of a small handmade gift, even better. But the most important need is your TIME and your PRESENCE! Okay, off my soapbox now...