As you make your list and check it twice, you might be wondering what the perfect gift might be for a senior loved one. In most cases it’s likely that they are downsizing, don’t need much “stuff”, and yet to remember them, what do they REALLY need or what do they want? Here are some great ideas:
- Cozy blankets: As seniors age, they can be colder. It’s common to see that their heat is higher than what your thermostat is in your own home. Having a nice throw blanket can be comforting in cold winter nights.
- Slippers/Pajamas: If you are investing in slippers or night attire, make sure that the slippers have a good grip on the sole. Make sure that pajamas are not too long or to difficult to get into.
- Motion detector lights: Night lights, special motion detector lights that can be placed around the home can be a great way to help keep your parents safe.
- Non-slip floor covering for the bathroom: If your loved ones have throw rugs on the floor or inside of a door, replace them with floor rugs that have a strong grip and that are non-slip surfaces.
- Gift Certificates: Does your mom have a favorite nail or hair salon, retail store, or membership she belongs to? Does your dad frequent a store or restaurant? If so, a stack of gift certificates can be an awesome gift.
- Day of Choice: We learned about a family who came together and gave Mom & Dad a weekend of their choosing every year. One weekend might be yard cleanup. Another might be a family outing or picnic. It might be attending an event together.
- Tablet/iPads: If your loved one isn’t that tech savvy, a gift of a small tablet such as a Microsoft Surface or an iPad can make it not so scary. Spend time teaching them how to access apps like social media and email.
- Meal Delivery Service: If you have a senior who lives alone, one of the greatest things you can do is provide a service that will bring food directly to them.
- An Amazon Prime™ membership: Shopping can be hard for seniors that may not drive much. By investing in an Amazon Prime™ membership they can purchase items that they need without having to pay for shipping costs. This includes nutritious organic foods from Amazon Fresh™ and tv/movie entertainment.
- Your Time: Numerous studies show that close to 60% of seniors are without regular visitors. Frankly, this is unacceptable. If you have a senior loved one in your life, one of the greatest gifts you can give them is your time. Purchase tickets to an event to share together. Treat them to their favorite restaurant. Bring refreshments and share a football or baseball game in front of the tv. Bring craft supplies or food ingredients to share in creating something wonderful together. These times are more precious than ever, and you will remember them far after they are gone.
