Holiday Gift Ideas for the Elderly
Holiday Gift Ideas for the ElderlyPosted by Lynn McLean on Yahoo Voices
You may recall the holiday shopping cliche, "What do you give to the person who has everything?"
Often, the person who seems to have all the "things" that they need is the special parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle on your holiday gift list. It doesn't take long to realize that Grandma truly does have just about everything she needs, whether she is living independently or in an assisted living or skilled care setting.
So what's the solution? A little thought can lead to many innovative gift ideas, many of which keep on giving all year long.
Give Your Special Senior the Gift of Service
As our loved ones advance in years, they become less mobile. The loss of driving ability can take a serious toll on aging family members, especially those who have treasured their independence. Set a schedule to visit your loved one bi weekly and help with errands, browsing, lunch out, or just a scenic drive. The change of scene and ability to be on the go can boost the recipient's spirits and give him or her something to look forward to on a regular basis. Even a single special day out can be a welcome respite from the limitations of everyday life.
if your special senior lives alone, it can be a challenge to maintain the house. The gift of a few hours to tackle the list of small home repairs is a treasure! From simple tasks such as replacing hard to reach light bulbs to larger home fix ups, your efforts will be appreciated. Size up Mom's situation and consider her needs - does her bedroom need a cheerful coat of paint? Or would she prefer that you tackle several of those pesky little jobs that she simply can't do on her own?
Give Your Special Senior the Gift of Time
The elderly often suffer from loneliness, as their siblings and friends may pass away, become Ill, or be less able to get together to socialize. The commitment of time shared with your special senior, like the gifts of service above, become priceless moments to look forward to. These special times may involve a planned activity such as a lunch date or seeing a movie, or they may simply be the gift of time together to chat over a cup of coffee.
Give Your Special Senior the Gift of Food
No, not fruitcake, unless you know that it is a seasonal favorite!
Even the most independent seniors can fall into the habit of eating repetitive diets. Cooking for one can seem like unnecessary effort or "too much work." There is no need to be exotic in your choices of recipes for your favorite senior citizen; he or she may enjoy an assortment of "family style" entrees frozen in single serving disposable containers. The next time you make a batch of your family's favorite homemade stew, meatballs, or casserole, freeze a portion to give as a gift. (Try using disposable Rubbermaid or GladWare containers with holiday colored lids for a pretty presentation.) label each container with an indelible pen, including the contents and heating directions.
If you are a summer gardener, add a freezer bag of your home grown veggies for an added treat.
Not much of a cook? How about a gift basket of grocery store items that your special senior would not typically buy for him/herself? Cheeses with crackers, assorted herbal teas or a special blend of coffee, and a package of cookies will hit the spot.
A word of caution here: before planning a food gift, be sure that are aware of any dietary restrictions that your loved one must follow. Your well intentioned plate of cookies may go to waste - or worse, pose serious health consequences - if the recipient is diabetic. Avoid ingredients that mat be hard on a delicate digestive system, such as lots of nuts or fibrous fruits.
Practical Gifts for your Special Senior
If Great Aunt Rose has always had a practical streak, it need not limit your gift giving options. Try lined stationery with matching envelopes and stamps, or a calendar with family birthdays filled in each month. How about a heat wrap - you can easily find one that warms up in the microwave or can be kept in the freezer to easy achy joints. A few personal care items may also be welcome, including lip gloss or body lotion. A heated throw or electric blanket will take the chill off on a winter evening.
"Just for Fun" Gifts for your Special Senior
How about a few classic movies on DVD, or a season of a favorite television show? If your special senior likes music, you might select a few CD's, such as a collection of hits by Tony Bennett or another favorite.
If Dad's interests are piqued by the latest technology, try downloading those favorite songs on an iPod. On the other hand, if he is mystified by computer technology, how about a few "one to one" lessons to be sure that he can comfortably navigate his e mail and Facebook page.
For Seniors with Special Needs
If the special senior on your holiday gift list has special needs, gift giving can pose a challenge. For the mobility-impaired, consider a tote bag that can easily attach to a wheelchair, or a small bag that can snap or Velcro onto a walker to hold the cell phone and essential items. For the senior with limited vision, try a book on CD. An afghan or lap robe are comforting reminders of your affection and thoughtfulness for those who are homebound.
Gifts for the special seniors on your holiday gift list need not be extravagant or pricey. Let your gift express sensitivity and thoughtfulness, and dare to be a bit creative!