Patient & Family Resource Blog

Great Gifts for Seniors

Shot of a senior man opening a Christmas gift

 

It’s that time of year again and if you’re like many of us, you may be struggling with what to get the older adults in your life. This may be particularly true if a medical condition confines them to spending much of their time at home. Here’s some suggestions for getting just the right thing for someone you love.

Lap Desk with Book Holder  

For those who have to spend a good part of the day in bed, a lap desk with a book holders makes it easy to write, surf the Internet, or read a good book. It also provides easy access to things like water, books and magazines, or the television remote.

A CD with their favorite music or a preloaded iPod

Music has the power to stimulate emotions, enhance one’s mood and soothe. Giving your loved one a CD or iPod with their favorite tunes is a perfect gift.

Framed pictures of special memories

Find a photo of your with the loved one when you were celebrating a wedding or birthday, or when you were vacationing together. This will serve as a constant reminder to them that they are special to you. It will also provide a constant mood boost.

Time with a professional home care companion

A professional home caregiver may be the perfect gift for someone who’s lonely. At Blize, our private duty companions offer friendly conversation, someone to play board games with, pet care and can even provide light housekeeping and laundry.

Board games

If you visit your loved one regularly, board games can be a great way to spend time together. They also help engage your loved one’s mind, which may help keep their brain healthy and active.

Clothing/Blankets

A warm cardigan sweater, a hand-knit blanket, a sweat suit or some non-skid slippers will provide comfort, while making your loved feel stylish as well! Remember that the best choices should be comfortable, loose fitting, and easy to put on, with no difficult fastenings.

Homemade Treats

Be sure and check with your loved one’s doctor, but, if allowed, homemade cookies, candies and cakes can make the holidays special, particularly if it’s something that’s part of a family tradition.

Grandkids’ arts and crafts

A mug made from clay, a crayon picture or even a poem from a grandchild is always a sweet idea. Not only do they provide a constant reminder that someone loves them, it provides a good conversation starter with friends that visit.

Phone cards

If most of the time spent with your loved one is over the phone, get them a prepaid phone card, so they can call you whenever they like. This lets them know your connection with them is important and provides some peace of mind that they can always reach you.

Remember, the best gift, of course, is a visit from you. Enjoy the season!

 

 

Categories: Caregiving