It’s not easy getting a gift for older people who have everything. With Christmas just around the corner, you may be scratching your head and going through catalogs or online stores (or even going to the store) looking for ideas.
But, let’s face it, seniors can be hard to shop for. They may already have just about everything they need or maybe they downsized and don’t have the need or desire for more material things.
So, what do you get them?
Well, my rule of thumb is to try to give thoughtful gifts that are also useful. Even if it’s to just replace or update something they already have.
Also, anything that contributes to their hobby or interest. Or, if they are into health and fitness, anything that will help them with that.
Remember, older generations are often more sentimental than younger generations. So, a gift that is personal and from the heart will definitely be cherished.
If your parents are older and have everything they could possibly want or need, here are some great gift ideas that will make them smile this Christmas season.
What Is A Good Gift For Older Parents?
If you’re looking for good gifts for older parents or other elderly people, consider something that can help to make their lives easier.
Some examples could be…
- A lightweight vacuum or maybe even a robotic one can be a great idea
- An echo show device so they can easily order items from Amazon, check the news, the weather, make a video call, etc.
- Update all their smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, etc.
- Pay for a handyman service to do the odds and ends in the house that your parents can no longer do.
- A photo frame with a photo of a special occasion (like their anniversary).
- If they’re having trouble standing up from a sitting position consider a lift chair, a car cane, chair lift assist, etc.
- Pay for Uber trips to and from a doctor’s appointment. This can be a great present for older adults who aren’t driving any more.
- A large number alarm clock. A very good gift for seniors with low vision.
- Enrollment in a class to learn a new hobby. You can compliment this with a basket filled with tools they may need for their new class.
A gift doesn’t necessarily have to be a physical object. You could also give the gift of your time. This is especially valuable to seniors who may not have many people to talk to on a regular basis.
You could offer to:
- Take them on a weekly walk
- Help them with yard work or housework
- Play cards or board games with them
- Cook meals for them once a week
- Take them to appointments or run errands for them
- Read to them
- Listen to their stories
Whatever you do, make sure it is something that the senior will enjoy and appreciate. It will mean the world to them, and brighten up their day.
Unique Gifts For Older Parents Who Have Everything
It can be tough to come up with gift ideas for older parents who seem to have everything they could possibly want. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
Here are some unique gift ideas that your older parents will love:
Streaming Service
A subscription to a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu. This way, they can stay up-to-date on their favorite shows and movies.
Jewelry
A nice piece of jewelry. This could be a necklace, earrings, or even a bracelet. Something that they can wear and enjoy for years to come.
Gift Card
A gift card to their favorite restaurant. This way, they can treat themselves to a night out on the town.
Grocery Store Gift Card
A gift card to their grocery store. These days, with food prices so high, this could be one of the best useful gifts. Tuck it into this beautiful gift envelope.
Custom Photo Album
A custom-made photo album. This is a great way to help them preserve their memories and a good excuse to go over family photos.
Digital Photo Frame
A digital photo frame is another way to exhibit photos that get automatically updated for them.
A Spa Day
A gift certificate for a day of pampering. This could include a massage, manicure, and pedicure. Something to help them relax and feel spoiled.
Discovering The Family Tree
A session with a geneologist to work on the family tree. Or, family members can get together and do their own research.
Light Therapy
A light therapy lamp to help with the winter blues.
Bed Linens
One of my favorite useful gifts to give is a set of nice bed linens. This can be a luxurious and practical gift.
Magazine Subscription
A subscription to a magazine or online service related to their favorite hobby.
Record Player
If they’ve kept their record albums, a new record player may be the perfect present for them.
Easy Remote Control
A large key remote control device.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something that your parent will appreciate and use.
Holiday Gifts For Elderly Parents
During the holiday season, there’s Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanza. Whichever holiday you and your family celebrates, there are wonderful gifts that you can give to your elderly parents to celebrate.
Here are some thoughtful holiday gifts for elderly parents.
1. A basket filled with their favorite things. This is a great gift idea for elderly parents because it shows that you care about their interests and what they like. Fill a basket with their favorite snacks, books, movies, or anything else that they enjoy.
2. An experience gift. Another great gift idea for elderly parents is an experience gift. This could be tickets to a show, a day at a spa, or anything else that they would enjoy. This type of gift is especially thoughtful because it’s something that they can enjoy together with you.
3. A donation in their name. If your elderly parents are philanthropic, consider making a donation in their name to their favorite charity. This is a great way to show them that you care about their causes and what they’re passionate about.
4. A personalized gift. Another thoughtful gift idea for elderly parents is something that is personalized with their name or initials. This could be a coffee mug, a keychain, or anything else that you know they would love.
5. A gift card. Sometimes the best gift is one that let’s them choose what they want. If you’re not sure what to get your elderly parents, a gift card is always a great option. You can get them a gift card to their favorite restaurant, store, or even online.
Hopefully these gift ideas have inspired you and given you some great ideas for what to get your elderly parents this holiday season. Remember, it’s the thought that counts so make sure whatever you choose is something that you know they will love and appreciate.
Inexpensive Gifts For Senior Citizens
You don’t have to spend a lot of money for a gift for someone. Sometimes, the best gifts are things that come from the heart. Here are some inexpensive gift ideas for senior citizens.
A photo album or scrapbook. This is a great way to help a senior citizen keep memories alive.
A personalized mug or water bottle. This is a practical gift that can be used every day.
A large print password book to record their login information so it’s always at their fingertips.
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A plant or flowers. This is a living gift that will brighten up any room.
A puzzle or game. This is a fun way to help pass the time.
A book. This is a great way to provide entertainment and knowledge.
A homemade coupon book with different coupons for different things they can do around the house (i.e. free back rubs, chores, etc.)
A basket filled with their favorite snacks and drinks.
A festive holiday-themed mug or plate.
A personalized key ring or keychain.
A unique piece of clothing that fits their personality.
A basket filled with items they can use on a relaxing weekend getaway.
These are just a few inexpensive gift ideas for senior citizens. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something that comes from the heart.
Best Gifts For Retired Parents
Your parents have worked for a very long time. Retirement is something they’ve most likely looked forward to.
So go ahead and give them something this Christmas that they can appreciate during this next phase of their lives.
Cell Phone Wallet
A small wallet attached to the cell phone is great because all you then have to take with you (most of the time) is your phone. One less thing to forget!
Luggage Set
I personally do not like to travel but so many folks do and when you’re retired, that seems to be the number one activity on the To Do list! So why not gift them a brand new luggage set?
Hobby Kits
Hobbies are another great activity that can finally be enjoyed to their fullest when you’re retired. Supply them with the tools and/or kits that they can use to enjoy this pastime.
Patio Furniture
Relaxing in the backyard is something that I know many of my retired friends love to do. They set up bird feeders, outdoor fire pits and of course, lounge on their patio furniture.
A new set may be a great holiday gift, even if they won’t be able to use it until springtime!
Memory Journal
When my father-in-law retired, he began working on his Memoirs. He wanted to jot down the many adventures of his life and the family has been grateful for it ever since!
There are many wonderful books out there that you can gift your senior loved one so they can write down their life’s events.
Food Gifts For Seniors
Food gifts can be a great gift because it’s usually something that they don’t normally buy for themselves. So it can truly be a treat.
You can even buy a subscription so that they receive a basket of food every so often.
Here are some great food gift ideas for older adults.
Chocolate
Is there anything better than receiving a box of chocolates? We think not! Chocolate is always a good idea when it comes to food gifts. You can get them a box of their favorite chocolates or even better, get them a chocolate making kit so they can make their own!
Tea
Tea is a great gift for seniors because it’s something that they can enjoy any time of day. Plus, there are so many different flavors and varieties to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your loved one.
Coffee
Coffee is another great gift idea for seniors. They can enjoy it in the morning or afternoon, and there are plenty of flavors to choose from. If your loved one is a coffee lover, they’re sure to appreciate this gift.
Baked Goods
Who doesn’t love baked goods? Seniors will love receiving homemade cookies, cakes, or even breads. If you’re not a great baker, no worries! There are plenty of bakeries that offer delicious baked goods that make great gifts.
Fruit
Fruit is a healthy and delicious option for seniors. It’s a great way to give them something sweet without overloading them with sugar. Plus, there are so many different types of fruit to choose from, so you can find the perfect gift for your loved one.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is a great alternative to fresh fruit for seniors. It’s still healthy and delicious, but it has a longer shelf life, so your loved one can enjoy it for months to come.
Nuts
Nuts are another great option for seniors. They’re a healthy snack that can be enjoyed on the go, and they come in a variety of flavor options.
Candy
If your loved one has a sweet tooth, then candy is the perfect gift for them. There are so many different types of candy to choose from, so you can find the perfect treat for your loved one.
Soup and Crackers
Soup and crackers make a great gift for seniors. It’s a simple, but delicious, meal that can be enjoyed anytime.
A Subscription Box For Monthly Food Delivery
If your loved one enjoys good food, then a subscription box for monthly food delivery is the perfect gift for them. With this gift, they’ll receive a box of fresh, delicious food every month.
This is a great gift for seniors because it’s something that they can look forward to each month. Plus, it’s a hassle-free way to get their meals delivered right to their doorstep.
We truly do hope that you and your loved ones have a safe and beautiful holiday season!
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