Gift Giving - What's on a Senior's List?

Posted by Donna Mae Scheib on December 28, 2016

Gift Giving – What’s on a Senior’s List?

It seems that the television, radio and newspaper ads feature an endless supply of gifts for the holidays except for possibly older family members. And, when asked, these “older family members” might not be able to tell you what they enjoy, want or need. Many will undoubtedly say they don’t need anything. Others may not know that a holiday is approaching. This article addresses the idea of gifts that will bring older adults health and wellness, as well as a touch of enjoyment and fun.

A digital picture frame

Have you thought of finding and preloading some favorite photos on a digital photo frame? These photos of memorable people, places, and activities will substitute for the older person having to locate and sift through stored photos and also ensure the photos won’t get damaged or misplaced. Instead, the older adult can spend their time enjoying the flashing, treasured images. From time to time, you can change out or add to the photos. This gift may also help with stimulating memory of these special people, places, and activities.

A pen and journal

Help the older adult to record their ideas and thoughts. If they can’t handle a pen and write by themselves, you can have them dictate their words to you. It is a great way for them to share their insights, help bring out their memories, and pass something onto the next generation(s). Look for a brightly colored pen or one with a special design and possibly one that is a little wider than most pens so it can be gripped easily. Add a journal with an attractive cover or colored paper with wider lines.

Big coffee table books

Many older people may have difficulty with their vision and find it hard to read as well. Consider a book with large, colorful photos about a favorite vacation spot, place to visit, or interesting hobby. Find a book with little writing that tells a story through the selected photos. Then page through the book together to create your own story.

Fitness and overall health products

Light hand weights allow the person to spend time on fitness. You could show them some simple exercises or create a tape of such exercises so they can follow along. Depending on the agility, strength, and interest level of the senior adult, you could give other fitness-related items like an elastic band or large bouncy ball.

Gadgets to help arthritic hands

There are many arthritis supplies that can help make day-to-day life tasks easier. From larger lamp switches to grabber reachers to door knob grippers to steady write and ring pens to playing card holders—these products indeed “make daily life a little easier” and allow the senior to be more independent. You can google “arthritic gadgets” to see what is on the market that may also match what your loved one may need.  

Gift cards

Why not consider spending time with your loved one at one of their favorite places? You could purchase a gift card to be used at a favorite restaurant or movie theater, grocery store or clothing store, etc. You could give a gift card for a service like a hairstyle, message or manicure. Add in a holiday card that says you will join them on the outing.

Music

Make or purchase a copy of your loved one’s favorite tunes (artist or song lyrics) and then locate a suitable digital player so they can listen to the music. You may need to find something simple for them to operate or have someone else turn on the music so they can enjoy it whenever they want. There are many research studies that show the positive value of music on the physical and emotional well-being of all aged people, including older adults.

Simple games

Some all time favorite games of Scrabble, Monopoly, Bingo, and  crossword puzzle books (large-lettered and simple words) utilize cognitive and memory skills. Most games also involve the interaction of others which increases the opportunity for language, attentiveness, and focus.

Quality time

Besides these material gifts and others that you have in mind, you can focus on spending quality time with your loved ones. Take them for a ride in your car to see the holiday decorations in a nearby neighborhood or downtown area. Attend a service at a local church, synagogue or mosque. Take in a holiday play, movie, or performance. Look in the local newspaper for holiday happenings. Help them to write out cards or to purchase/mail out gifts. If they are mobile enough, you could take them out shopping, otherwise bring in your computer to look at online stores or an assortment of catalogues to order from. Can you bring some decorations to make their living area more festive or possibly bake a favorite food together? You might want to stop at the library or video store to find a special video to watch as well or check out local television listings and plan a visit to watch that holiday show.

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By remembering your loved one at the holiday season, you send a clear message that  you care. The gift of yourself and your time are gifts that will never want to be returned. Instead these gifts will touch your loved one’s heart. And I’m sure, your heart, too.

This year, be appreciate of the holiday season and make it “...a good time” for your loved one. Happy Holidays!