We have 2 night people: 3 nights and 4 nights. We also have a day person 40 hours a week. Hospice only gives 15 hours a week and mom needs round the clock care. Paying these people is just going through all of mom's money. She (we) are not rich. Just doing what has to be done. I've read it is usually one weeks salary given. This would come to almost $1900. Does everyone give a weeks pay?
I would think a card with a nice handwritten message expressing your appreciation along with a gift card would be nice. Some people give turkeys, hams, or gift certificate to a restaurant, but so many people are in need of money just to buy their kids some clothes or a toy for Christmas, that I would keep that in mind. For some people a hundred dollar bill means the world, especially at the holidays. I live in the south. It may be different in other areas of the country.