With the holiday season upon us, many people are rushing to find the perfect gift for everyone on their list. However, it can sometimes be difficult to know what to give the seniors on your list. When seniors move to retirement living, an assisted living or skilled nursing home, they often downsize, or scale back when it comes to their possessions. Gifts that are consumable and usable are usually preferred over others that they may have to store.

Here are some gift suggestions:

• Gift cards to a favorite store
• Consumable items—varies depending on individual dietary restrictions
• Phone cards
• Coupon books
• Lifestyle products, i.e; big button telephones, voice activated light switches, etc.
• Subscriptions to magazines
• Large print books

The holiday season can be a depressing time for some seniors, particularly for those who have lost a spouse or are estranged from their families or friends.  When you visit your loved one, do not forget to include their immediate neighbors or roomates in your celebration if at all possible.  This does not have to involve a lot of planning on your part, a simple card or small gift is all that is necessary to brighten someone’s day.

Remember, it really is the thought that counts, and you will undoubtedly discover that the best gift that you can give to the senior in your life is the gift of your love and your time. Use this holiday season to show them just how much they mean to you.

HOLIDAY GIFTS & TIPS FOR SENIORS: IDEAS FOR A JOYOUS SEASON

If you have older relatives and friends and you just don’t know what to give them, don’t despair… you are not alone!  Many seniors have made or are in the midst of life changes, downsizing to smaller living quarters or perhaps have moved to a retirement, assisted living or skilled nursing facility. As a result, most seniors do not want to receive more “things”. Their adult children and friends are faced with a tough question of what to get someone who is trying to “unclutter” at this stage.

There are countless gift giving suggestions that will be appreciated. Instead of giving traditional gifts like a necktie or another doodad to dust – try giving creative, easily consumed gifts or services, to make their lives easier. Use your knowledge about the person to tailor gifts that will be helpful to them.  Telephone cards, transportation tickets, coupon books for discount services or a donation to their favorite charity are appreciated. For those with health challenges such as poor eyesight or hearing, arthritis or other physical limitations, there are myriad items that will be welcomed. Gifts such as amplified big button telephones, talking room thermometers, voice activated light switches and specially adapted utensils with large grip handles are helpful suggestions.  Personalized memory books, a framed picture of a loved one or themed gift baskets designed with the senior’s special interests in mind are hits! Subscriptions for magazine, large print novels, decks of cards and a stash of favored snacks are sure pleasers. With so many seniors striving to maintain their health, the “gift of health” goes a long way. Pampering services, such as a certificate for a manicure, massage or facial are surely welcomed.  Keep in mind that Santa may be a distant memory, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t experience pleasure in unwrapping a gift!

For seniors living in assisted living or nursing homes, the holidays can be a depressing, lonely time. They may have memories of better times in their past, especially for those who have lost a spouse, have family members afar or are estranged from their families. Bring an old photograph album to refresh memories from long ago. Importantly, while visiting “mom” don’t forget her roommate or neighbors. Perhaps “adopt” a senior, to help ease their “holiday blues”. These individuals not only need recognition and a friendly visitor, but can always use personal care items or small pleasures and a friendly visit. Be prepared to listen, listen and listen!

Invite your senior to a holiday gathering, so that they still feel that they are a vital part of a celebration. Offer to bring wrapping paper and lend a hand in shopping for them to buy the holidays gifts they may have in mind.  Most importantly, remember the caregivers and staff at senior communities, faithfully caring for your aging loved one.  They deserve to be applauded for the hard work that they do!

High on the wish list for many seniors is something that can’t be bought in a store, the one thing their families may find in short supply – time.  Plan ahead, make the time, involve the senior and above all don’t let their limitations interfere with an enjoyable visit!