There are so many unique gift-giving ideas for seniors this season; families will be challenged to narrow their lists! Gifts for older adults should show feeling and thought, plus practicality. Residences Senior Living recommends items that are fun to have but also serve a function. Finding the right balance of gift-giving also means gifts or activities they actually need and will use. That’s what our residents tell us so we’ve compiled some of their ideas as well as those from their families and even our staff!
Ladies first!
Ladies enjoy cozy, soft clothing, and easy-going outfits they can easily slip into while doing their chair exercises or walking. Think elastic waist pull up sportswear in beautiful pastels to brighten winter months indoors.
Quality skin care products are great gifts she may want to try but not actually purchase for herself, thinking these products are “extravagant.” Choose from facial to body soothing creams and lotions. Foot care items are also available. There are many consultants throughout our communities who would be happy to help make selections. Mary Kay or Avon are just two examples. Beautifully packaged lotions, soaps, nail care collections are always welcomed.
She may have a box full of costume or even fine jewelry collected over the years, but today’s women are all-in for personalized treasures—in other words, your name is displayed! Necklaces, bracelets, wallets stamped with your name, the items that can be personalized are endless as well as practical—especially when forgetting where that item was placed. Magnifier necklaces can be changed to match an outfit.
Hobby-related supplies –what knitter, artist, quilter or jewelry maker has not lusted after the newest materials for her stash? Check your local fabric and yarn shops, art supply stores for the latest and most unique supplies. Gentlemen have hobbies ranging from sports collectibles to equipment—be sure to add to his collection. Hobbies are great for maintaining cognitive health.
Gift Ideas for the Men!
Men still love gadgets, even if they will not admit it! There are wallets that keep a cell phone safe, up to three credit or ID cards and cash, close and protected—ideal for those who take frequent walks. Fitbit watches track health and wellness plus a GPS locater. During winter, when confined or just because it’s an easy way to keep circulation moving, there are bike pedal exercisers—there are a variety of vendors on Amazon. These fit under tables or in front of a favorite chair. Another bonus—low risk for falls! And of course, these are fine gifts for the ladies as well.
Everyone loves a treat and it’s something to look forward to if you give the gift of a subscription. Choose de-caffeinated teas and coffees, sugar-free candies and jams, fruits, soups and more for the health-conscious. Local restaurants offer gift cards, even delivery, and that is a great way to support small businesses in your loved one’s community, especially when you do not live close-by.
Consider movie and book, including audio, subscriptions. Audible subscriptions offer a special boost to those with low vision or even dementia. Audible even has a gift center, free listens, and a low introductory price for new subscriptions.
For those with low vision, there are LED page magnifiers and keyboards with high contrast and oversized keys for laptops. If they are a hobby-enthusiast, they for sure would like an OTT light with magnifier, when working on small projects difficult to see.
Families stress when loved ones are beginning to experience memory issues. There are almost magical ways to relieve some of their stress while making it easier for a parent or spouse to enjoy quality living and a great gift. Memory cell phones can take the confusion out of making and receiving calls with photos to manage contacts. The Grand Pad Accessibility Enabled Tablet for Seniors has a video call feature and photo sharing, through an easy-to-use app creating a family network.
Still, nothing beats a surprise visit from family. New puzzles to enjoy together, with a roll-up mat to save for next visit, or playing a game that brings generations together like the Grandkids vs. Grandparents Trivia game. Time spent together will always be the best gift ever!
