The holiday season is here, and it’s a perfect time to spread cheer with a thoughtful gift. But thinking of gift ideas for the older adults in your life isn’t always easy. To help with your gift-giving this year, we’ve put together a list of five great gift ideas for senior loved ones:
Gift certificates for personal care services
This year, treat the senior in your life to a trip to the hair salon or barbershop, a manicure or pedicure, or even a massage. Most spa treatments can be adapted for seniors who have sensitive skin or conditions such as arthritis. If your loved one lives in a senior living community with an on-site hair salon or barbershop, consider purchasing a gift certificate so they can enjoy feeling pampered in the comfort of their community.
Cozy blankets
A soft, cozy blanket is another wonderful gift idea for the older adult in your life. Weighted blankets are highly popular due to their stress and anxiety-relieving benefits. A weighted blanket can help older adults feel more comforted and relaxed, and may even help them get a better night’s rest. Weighted blankets may also be particularly beneficial for older adults with dementia, who often experience anxiety, distress, and insomnia.
Tech gadgets to stay connected
More and more older adults are using technology and “smart” devices to stay connected with friends and family. Touch-screen tablets and smartphones are now more intuitive than ever, allowing older adults to easily reach their loved ones via video chat or text messaging. Tablets and smartphones can also provide a source of entertainment for older adults, with brain-exercising games, movies, and books accessible on a single device.
Mentally stimulating games and puzzles
Games make a great gift for seniors, whether you choose a classic board game, jigsaw puzzle, or even a video game. Playing games can have positive health benefits for older adults, helping to keep their cognitive abilities sharp and boost memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. People of all ages appreciate the fun of playing games together, making it a great activity to enjoy when visiting senior loved ones.
Custom photo album
For many older adults, looking through family photos is a comforting and therapeutic activity. If you’re looking for a thoughtful holiday gift for a senior loved one, consider creating a special photo album, personalized scrapbook, or shadow box for a creative way to display precious memories and keep photos safe from damage.
Perhaps the greatest gift you can give the older adults in your life is the gift of your time. Spending time visiting your senior loved ones and including them in your festivities is sure to make them feel loved and appreciated this holiday season.
