Shopping for parents is difficult. They either have everything, or they don’t want anything. And there’s nothing so annoying as the “you-don’t-need-to-get-me-anything” response when you ask. You want to get them something to show your love. Why are they so frustrating? Take a breath! Here are 11 senior gift ideas certain to please:
- Gift cards. Give them a gift card to their favorite shop. If they have difficulty getting out, get it for an online store. Unlike gift certificates, gift cards don’t have their name on them, so if they want to regift, they can.
- Donations. If your parent is the altruistic sort, there is no better gift than a donation in their name. Consumer Reports has a list of the best and worst charities.
- Books. Older people love to read. AARP offers a list of books recommended for seniors. Your local public library has large-print books, as well as many books for free download to a tablet or ebook reader, and you can always ask a librarian for advice.
- Memories. Dig out some old photos, scan them, enlarge them and frame them.
- Food. Who doesn’t appreciate a gift of food for the holidays?
- Wine. Red wine has resveratrol, an antioxidant which helps with symptoms of aging.
- Coffee and Tea. Gourmet coffees and teas are available to please anyone’s palate.
- Chocolate. Dark chocolate is known to cheer people up, but any kind of chocolate is a mood-enhancer.
- Activities especially for them. Call up a local independent living, assisted living or skilled nursing community nearby and ask them if there’s a holiday event that potential residents could attend. These communities offer programs aimed at people just like your parent, so your parent is sure to enjoy them.
- Usefulness. Your parents grew up in a time when being useful was among the highest compliments they could be paid. Ask them to help you. For example, record an interview with them about Christmases past for your children. If your mom can sew or bake, ask her to sew a gift for your child or bake a special dish. Ask her for a favorite recipe. Ask your father about car problems or electrical problems or something he knows.
- Time. Giving your parents time is not only a gift for them, it’s a gift for you. You shouldn’t be surprised if you cherish the time as much as they do.
Holidays are joyful, but they may also be challenging.