Gifts for Seniors That Will Brighten Up Their Holiday Season

It’s that time of year again, where we often scramble to find the perfect gift for everyone we love in our lives. My search begins before Thanksgiving as my favorite bloggers and Instagram influencers post their holiday gift list ideas. There are gifts for her, gifts for him, gifts for kids, gifts for dogs, gifts for babies, gifts for new moms…you get the idea. But one gift list idea is not as readily available– gifts for seniors.

For many, especially for our senior love ones, the holidays can be a difficult season. Memories from the past are often intermingled with grief, loneliness, and change. As we are still dealing with lingering effects from the COVID-10 Pandemic, isolation and uncertainty are common themes for yet another winter. While nothing will replace presence, good conversation, and a comforting hug, finding the right holiday gift can certainly brighten up the holiday season for our senior loved ones.

As you make your Christmas list, consider the seniors in your life. Of course, your elderly mother will be on your list but think also of your senior neighbor who lives next door. How can we love those around us who may feel lonely and isolated this holiday season? With this in mind, here are some ideas for gifts for seniors. Take a look at our list of gift ideas to help you find the perfect gift for your elderly loved one.

Cozy Gifts For Seniors

1. A Cozy Throw Blanket – Shop for a cozy throw blanket that is both soft and pretty. This gift will make a nice addition to a favorite armchair. Beautiful throw blankets can be found at most stores and easily online as well. Be sure to look for a throw blanket that won’t shed, there is nothing worse than a beautiful blanket that sheds all over you!
2. Your Favorite Book – For the reader in your life gift some of your favorite books of the year. This gift can be both thoughtful and personal. If you have read the book, include a handwritten note on why you loved it! When possible purchase the book with large print. This gift pairs well with the throw blanket if you are looking to create a bigger gift. Here are some book ideas:
   • Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover: This book practically turns its own pages, a story you have to read to believe! Sure to be a true hit to any reader.
   • Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund: A beautiful, encouraging book for the religious or spiritual senior in your life.
   • The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah: The author of acclaimed “Nightingale” writes a gripping novel set in the 1930s during the great depression.
3. Mug and Coffee or Tea Set – Gift a personalized mug from Etsy along with your favorite coffee beans or a favorite tea. Look for a local variety (a great way to shop local!) such as coffee beans from a local roaster or from an area they once lived. Or splurge on a beautiful and delicious tea, my favorite is Mariage Freres. This can be ordered online through various retailers or your local tea shop may carry it as well.

Technology Gifts for Seniors

1. A Digital Picture Frame – Help memories last with a digital picture frame. Be sure to help with setting up and uploading pictures. Include images from the past as well as updated images of grandkids and great-grandkids.
2. Kindle Reader – Everyone loves a Kindle, especially older adults when it allows for easy zoom features for comfortable reading.

Hobby Gifts for Seniors

1. Potted Plant and Watering Can – For senior loved ones with a green thumb, gift an indoor plant repotted in a beautiful container. Include a darling watering can so daily watering can be done in style.
2. Cookbook and Stand – For the senior who loves to cook a beautifully photographed cookbook can provide creative inspiration as well as serve as a nice coffee table book.
3. Yoga Mat and Personalized Water Bottle – For the senior who loves to move, gift a high-quality yoga mat and an accompanying water bottle that keeps their drink cold for hours. Take this gift up a notch by personalizing the water bottle.

Simple and Heartfelt Gifts for Seniors

1. Handmade gifts – Handmade gifts provide the opportunity to show your love through time spent creating something that often doesn’t break the bank. Handmade gift ideas are numerous, here are just a few–a knitted scarf, hand-painted art, or a child’s artwork.
2. Framed Pictures – Print your favorite images and frame them for your loved one.
3. Baked Goods – What are the holiday season without a delicious and beautiful treat? Decorated sugar cookies or a favorite holiday baked good makes a sweet gift. Before gifting, be aware of possible allergies or dietary restrictions.

Remember the Gift of Time

When it comes to finding the perfect gift, remember, the greatest gift we can give to others is our time. Unhurried time spent together is a priceless gift, one that feels even more special after living through the pandemic. When in doubt about what to give, opt for the opportunity to be together if at all possible. This can be as simple as sharing a meal or even a cup of tea. Gift ideas can also be more elaborate, like picking up your loved one for an event such as a holiday party, or a visit to the local ballet to see The Nutcracker. Time spent together is a gift for all parties. Time together provides opportunities to remember the past and loved ones who may have passed away. It also creates new memories in the present as you connect, laugh, and perhaps even cry together. And time together lets us anticipate and look forward to the future together. Time together is a precious gift.

Time together can also lead to recognizing changes in behavior, health, or even tidiness in the home. Assessing your loved one’s safety often happens during the holiday season as more time is spent together. If you have questions about home safety, concern over your loved one’s well-being, or questions about home care services, give us a call today. Our care team is ready to answer questions and provide the help that you or your loved one needs this holiday season.

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