The holiday season is upon us, and many are still wondering what to get for the “people who have everything.” Although our parents or another elderly loved one may not be rich, they often need very little – and gift-giving can be challenging. No one wants to buy a gift that sits in the box all year, but the older generation can sometimes be resistant to using new things. With that in mind, we have assembled a guide for holiday gifts that your loved one will find useful, fun, or intriguing – and that they will actually use.
- Plug-In Heaters: As we get older, we often can feel a little chilly – even here in Florida. for those chilly nights and mornings during winter (or even if the air conditioning is set too low!) these personal plug-in heaters will do the trick. simply plug into an outlet and enjoy the warmth. Keep in mind – even a space heater this small can cause a fire if too close to something flammable. If your loved one has dementia or may not be able to use this heater safely, it may not be advisable.
- Phone Screen Magnifiers: These gadgets are great holiday gifts and are so intuitive they are a no-brainer for any older person who uses a cell phone. Simply place the cell phone behind the device, and it will magnify movies, video phone calls, or emails onto a bright, large screen. If your loved one uses a cell phone, they will love this attachment.
- Creative Photo Displays: We found a bronze tree that displayed family photos among the leaves, but there are many artistic and creative photo displays to give. These displays can add design flair to a room while reminding your elderly loved one every day of the people who are most important to them.
- Digital Photo Displays: If you prefer, you can provide a digital photo display to your loved one. These devices continuously scroll through hundreds of photos that are pre-loaded by the giver and can be updated remotely when there are new photos to share.
- Tile Mates: This is the digital age’s answer to “where are my keys?” These small digital tiles can be attached to keys, placed in handbags, or attached to any other important item that tends to get lost. The tiles “speak” to their smartphone to tell them where they are located, so a smartphone is a necessity for this gift.
- Doorbell Cameras: If your elderly relative still lives in their own home, a doorbell camera may provide a level of security that they need to feel safe. These monitors also provide peace of mind to family members, who can hook the doorbell up to their own cellphones to monitor any activity around their parent’s home.
- Memory Journals: If your loved one is still able to write, providing them with a journal is a great way to preserve their memories. Tell them that the book will be given to their grandchildren. It will become a cherished activity meant to share their lives, memories, and feelings with those they love.
- Food Box Delivery: Many older adults neglect their own diet and nutrition needs and often don’t feel comfortable going shopping on their own. Set up a weekly subscription that delivers fresh vegetables, meat, or dairy to ensure your loved one has fresh food. If your family member is not likely to prepare meals, you can send prepared meals that only need to be heated up. Fresh fruit deliveries can encourage healthy, easy snacking.
- Gift Certificates: For those older adults who love to eat out, restaurant gift certificates as holiday gifts make it easy. Offer to take them if they are wary of driving – they will likely love treating you and having the time together.
At A Banyan Residence in the Villages, we are committed to our residents’ health, well-being, and happiness. If you would like to learn more about assisted living in the new year, call us for a tour.
