Do you have a special someone in your life who you’d like to purchase a gift for? Perhaps it’s a grandparent, a parent or a dear senior friend? Whether they already have everything they need, or you just don’t know what they would want, finding gifts for seniors can be tough. Below we take a look at some ideas and insights to keep in mind when looking for gifts for seniors.
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Something Personal
It can be a lot of fun to give gifts, and it’s even more fun when you know they will appreciate the gift for many years. This is why finding a personal gift that they would enjoy is a great idea. If you want to go with something they can bring out time and time again, consider personalized mugs or photo calendars with their most beloved family members or pets. For a more personal gift, you can also consider getting them a piece of jewelry. Family birthstones or custom pieces are a great way to provide a more personal touch, while also giving something your loved one can cherish.
Emphasize Their Lifestyle
When looking for gifts for seniors, it’s important to take into account their lifestyle. If your senior friend or family member is an avid traveler you may want to look at getting them luggage or travel accessories. If you know they play golf or tennis, perhaps a new club, racket or article of sports-themed clothing!
Something Useful
Another option is to give something that your senior friend would find useful. There are several different ideas that you can go with, but some of the most popular are electric tea kettles which provide an easy method to boil water or health-related gifts like a new cane or walker.
For many seniors, making meals at home can be challenging. If you are willing to spend a little more, consider getting them a food service subscription. This is a gift that will continue to give them fresh groceries or meals in their home for several months, allowing them to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals.
Other useful gift ideas can include smart home technology such as Alexa or Google Assistant. This is a gift that is not only practical but can be extremely useful in an emergency situation. Lifeline bracelets are also an excellent choice and can provide both the gift giver and receiver with peace of mind.
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Something Fun or Relaxing
You can’t put a price on the gift of joy and personal accomplishment. If you know of a hobby your loved one enjoys, consider purchasing them the supplies they need for this hobby. For example, if you have a grandparent that loves to do cross-stitching, get them a large piece of embroidery fabric and all the floss they will need. This can also be a great thing if your loved one enjoys baking and cooking – consider getting them all the ingredients for making their favorite dishes or treats.
Offer Your Help
If you are willing, offer your time instead of your money by getting them groceries or other things they need for their house. If you are not comfortable offering your labor, perhaps try spending time with them instead. They will appreciate the company and the time you are willing to spend with them.
One-of-a-Kind Gifts
There are some gifts that are truly one-of-a-kind. For example, if you’re good with woodworking, you can give them a custom-made chair they can use in their garden or deck. A gift like this shows just how much effort and work went into making the gift for them – which is sure to mean a lot to them!
A unique, handmade gift is a great way to have children involved in the process. Children can draw or paint a picture, or create a craft for seniors. These handmade crafts are sure to be cherished forever.
An Experience
Another option is to give the gift of experience. Seniors may appreciate this because it doesn’t take up any space or need to be kept. With an experience you can provide them with a night out on the town, tickets to their favorite concert, or a trip with family.
Service
There are an abundance of services available which can be extremely helpful for seniors. Whether lawn care, snow removal, or cleaning services, these services can save your loved ones time and money. If they are already receiving services, consider a gift card that they can put toward the continuation of these services.
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Subscriptions
If you are looking for a gift that keeps on giving, a subscription is an excellent choice. There are many subscriptions available for seniors, including magazines, newspapers, and so much more. Looking for a unique option? Subscription boxes include a book of the month, floral bouquets, or even monthly manicures! A subscription brings their favorite things to them every week or month without needing to leave the house.
Look for inspiration the next time you want to give a gift to your senior loved one. Spend some time thinking about the person you are buying for, and how you can best give them a gift that they’ll enjoy. Not only will they appreciate the gift but the thought and consideration behind it as well. After all – “the quality of the gift comes from the sincerity of the giver” – American author Ann Patchett.
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