A few weeks ago, I visited my mother for her birthday. Since her stroke nine years ago, she has persevered through physical and emotional challenges that sometimes feel overwhelming. This life stage seems to have an abundance of loss, and while my mother is incredibly optimistic, I see how these realities affect her mood and outlook at times.

Without fully realizing the profound impacts, friends and family gave my mother several “sensory” gifts this year. I happily witnessed her experience the therapeutic effects of these presents of presence. As described by researchers, Drs. Norman Farb and Zindel Segal, tuning into the new science of sensation can help us feel Better in Every Sense (2024).

For her birthday, I gave my mother art supplies this year. I purchased watercolor notecards for her to paint and a “Bridgerton”-inspired adult coloring book (Sara Richard), filled with intricate dress patterns, flowers, and whimsical room designs. I found the perfect pack of watercolor felt-tip pens. Friends and family members sent her vibrant flower arrangements. Her small room smelled........

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