What should you buy an elderly loved one for Christmas? Which holiday gifts are most appropriate for senior citizens? What would your grandmother like in her stocking this year?
The possibilities are endless!
Remember, not all "elderly" may be as old as you think they are. When we hear the word "elder" or "senior citizen" we often think of "the Grandma's raised during the Great Depression". But just think! People who are close to retirement age this year were the teenagers of the 60's (and early 70's)!
And if your loved one has reached the amazing age of 75, (three quarters of a century!), or close, then they were the teens of the 50's...
They sort of invented "cool".
I always try to bring you some new perspectives into caregiving and caring for the elderly. I've done more traditional gift guides, (you can find the links at the end of this article) but you can (and should) think outside the box sometimes when buying for your aging relatives, friends and neighbors.
Sure, a person can probably always use another pair of fuzzy socks and some hand cream, and you should always pick gifts that are safe for a person's health conditions, but why not glam up your gift giving this year with some trendier, cooler, presents too?
Here are some fresh gift ideas, from prettier versions of practical gifts, to things that are just plain modern and fun.
*This post contains affiliate links. When you buy via my links I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which goes to support this blog. Full disclosure here. Thank you!*
1. Cactus Essential Oil Diffuser
Oil diffusers are always great gift ideas for the elderly. They can be therapeutic, or just add a lovely aroma to a room. This cactus oil diffuser has the added benefit of also being a fake plant and a humidifier! That makes it double-perfect for small spaces. Unlike some traditional units, it doesn't look "medical" at all.
2. Thought A Day Notepad
These would be a beautiful gift for a senior in any living arrangement. Everyone needs to make a list or write a note sometimes. Pair it with a lovely pen for the perfect gift set.
3. Cherry Blossom Umbrella
Umbrellas are a practical and common gift idea for seniors. This beautiful clear umbrella with a fountain of cherry blossoms would be a classy addition to a Sunday outfit, and a perfect accessory for everyday outings.
4. Fruit Slice Pill Organizer
The only thing worse than being stuck on a daily regimen of medication is being stuck using boring pill boxes and sorters that look like they belong in a hospital rather than a home.
Not these! They are bright and fun while still be highly functional. The small shape makes them easy to carry in a bag or purse.
(Safety Note: because these could be mistaken for candy containers by children or adults with cognitive issues, please make sure medications are never left in unattended areas.)
5. Plaid Throw
Buffalo plaid is in this winter, which means you can gift a nice throw blanket that's classic and unisex. Since plaid is so classic, it can be kept out all year long and look nice wherever it's used.
6. Apple Sticky Notes
A fun way to keep sticky notes handy. These look decorative while serving a universal purpose.
7. Wood Piggy Bank
Children aren't the only people who need a fun reminder to save change! This bank is cute and elegant at the same time. The glass window and natural wood frame will let it blend in with any decor, and it can be suitable for both men and women.
8. Classic Copper Kettle
A classic copper kettle can make any kitchen seem cheerier and cozier!
Everyone has those little odds and ends that need a home. An adorable little drawer organizer can tame a cluttery area. Perfect for dressers, nightstands, bathrooms, desks, the kitchen counter, and hobby areas.
10. Copper Fidget Spinner
Think of it as more than a trendy toy! Any type of fidget device can be beneficial to the elderly. It can be soothing and therapeutic for those with dementia and anxiety. In turn, this can alleviate unhealthy habits such as nervous skin picking or nail biting, (which can lead to infections and illnesses).
It's also cool and fun, and much more discreet than fidget blankets, jackets and aprons made for the elderly to wear.
(Safety Note: I would recommend avoiding any spinners with lights or odd shapes. A safe, durable spinner like the one below would be the easiest to handle for those with arthritis.)
11. Instant Camera
While digital cameras are great for capturing tons of photos, a lot of seniors would appreciate one of these nostalgic models that create "real" photos. A great way to relive old memories and make new ones. The photos are wallet sized, making them great for scrapbooks, journals, small albums, brag books, or sharing with friends.
12. Bamboo Spa Shower Seat
A shower bench can make showering safer and more comfortable. It can also make a bathroom look pretty luxurious! Whether it's for sitting on, or just a place to stack towels within easy reach of the tub, a bamboo bathroom seat is a nice gift for the person who needs a little extra help, but doesn't want a "medical" device in their home yet.
13. Decorative Door Stops
Have you ever visited someone's house and thought you were being nice by tidying up a pile of things by a door? Or maybe you moved a trash can back in place, tripped over a magazine rack, or caught your foot on a pair of shoes lying inside the bathroom? Then you get fussed at for "letting the door close".
That was my grandmother's house, and a lot of other homes I've been in as well.
You can give a great gift AND make a home safer (and tidier) with a nice, decorative door stop, such as one of these:
Cast iron owl doorstop
Stretching Cat Door Stop
Sitting Puppy Door Stop
Bright, Rubber Leaf Door Stopper Set
(Safety Note: Please make sure that heavy door stops contrast enough with the floor color to be visible, even in dim light. )
14. Perpetual Calendar with Wooden Blocks
Sleek, minimal, and easy-to-read. May or may not help reduce the clutter of paper calendars throughout the house. Either way, a perpetual calendar still looks elegant on a desk, counter, or nightstand.
15. Vintage-Style Post Card Book Mark Set
A beautiful set of 30 travel-inspired bookmarks. For those who love to travel the world in person, or just between the pages of their favorite books.
16. Pineapple Bookend
Also for the book lover, a set of attractive bookends.
17. Adult Coloring Book Set with Multi-Level Designs
And finally, some gorgeous coloring books with intricate designs. Coloring books can be relaxing for people of all ages. Having a creative outlet can reduce boredom and lessen the chance of depression. Managing coloring tools is also a good way to exercise motor skills. (TIP: for those with arthritis, slip on pencil grips can make coloring more comfortable.)
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