The holidays are rapidly approaching, and it’s time to finalize shopping for your friends and family. If you are having trouble deciding on the perfect gift for a senior loved one, you are reading the right article. Below, we outline some of our favorite ideas for holiday gifts that may surprise and inspire them.

holiday gifts for assisted living residents

Check Out These Holiday Gifts

  • Apple iPhone: Few people think of the latest technology when it comes to giving gifts to elderly loved ones. Modern technology is not only intuitive and easy to use, but it offers many wonderful features to help those in assisted living feel more connected. The Apple iPhone is a great gift for seniors, as it provides an easy-to-use interface, large text options, and even hearing aid features. Seniors can use Facetime to stay connected, emergency SOS and fall detection to stay safe, and location tracking if they get confused or lost. When you gift an iPhone to an elderly loved one, you can preset features, set up shortcut icons, and ensure correct accessibility settings. You can further personalize the phone by adding music playlists and importing important phone numbers.
  • Non-Slip Socks: This gift keeps their feet warm and cushioned, and non-slip socks are also exceptionally useful. It can be easy for elderly people to slip on tile or wood, but the gripping feature gives them more stability and confidence – making it more likely that they will want to get up and walk. Socks are available in various styles and colors and can even be whimsical or represent a favorite hobby.
  • Polaroid Camera: Assisted living residents can often feel isolated or lonely – but providing a way to interact with others can inspire joy. The Polaroid is an iconic camera that is making a comeback and is a fun way for residents to engage with one another. Teach your loved one how to use the camera and help them get started taking photos of their friends. Being able to share the photos within minutes gets everyone involved in the fun.
  • White Noise/Sound Machine: Many seniors experience sleep issues, making sleep sound machines excellent holiday gifts. These devices generate peaceful and calming white noise to help seniors fall asleep or relax. White noise can also be soothing and calm anxiety, which is important for many seniors experiencing fear or stress. You can also choose models that play nature sounds, such as rainfall or birds chirping, which can be extremely comforting.
  • Light Therapy Lamp: Natural light can be healing. Here in Florida, seniors have the ability to spend long days in the sunshine, but some assisted living residents are restricted by limited mobility. Light therapy lamps mimic natural outdoor light to help brighten your loved one’s day.
  • Audible Audio Books: Many seniors miss being able to read like they used to and miss the escape that books provide. Audiobook programs offer full libraries of classic novels, documentaries, and podcasts so that your loved one can once again enjoy literature and educational programs. Audible can be installed on any tablet, smartphone, or laptop that they may have.
  • Throw Blankets: Few things are more comforting than a soft, plush throw blanket, especially in air-conditioned environments. If you want to make it especially meaningful, consider having a personalized blanket made with pictures of the grandchildren.

Ask Assisted Living Personnel for Advice

If your loved one is in assisted living and you are stumped as to the perfect gift, ask the personnel who care for them every day. They may have some insight into what could be useful or meaningful.

A Banyan Residence provides quality senior residence options in Ocala/The Villages and Venice, Florida. Call today to schedule a tour for you or your family member.