It’s that time of year again: Your senior loved one has a birthday coming up, or the holidays are closing in, and you do not know what to get them.
Buying unique gifts for seniors can be tricky. The gift must be something they can use, and if they have limited space, something that isn’t too bulky.
Ready to learn more about the best gifts for the elderly? Read on to learn about top senior gift ideas that will be a hit with your loved one.
A Pill Organizer
As you get older, you may find yourself taking more and more medications. The same is true for your loved one. With issues like coordination and memory fog to tackle, it can be even more challenging for seniors to take their medication on time.
Even if your loved one’s assisted living community has medication management, a pill organizer can help them feel empowered to take care of themselves.
Pill organizers range from simple models with slots for each day to complex machines that feature timers and multiple boxes for different times of the day.
A Cozy Blanket
There’s nothing better than curling up with a warm blanket on cold nights. A blanket is one of the most thoughtful elderly presents you can buy for your loved one.
For an added benefit, consider purchasing a weighted blanket. These blankets usually weigh between five and 25 pounds. The extra pressure can help with conditions such as anxiety and chronic pain.
Make sure to consult your loved one’s medical providers if you plan to purchase a weighted blanket. Or, simply buy them a regular blanket in a pattern they will love.
Key Finder
Have you ever lost your keys, even though you swore you put them in the right place? Remembering where things are located gets even more challenging as you get older.
The models for key finders range from simple to complex. For your seniors who may be technologically challenged, there are setups that they can use without a smartphone.
For a more advanced system, try something like Tiles or an Apple AirTag. They can track lost items, such as keys, with their smartphone to see the exact locations.
An Amazon Kindle
If your loved one struggles to read regular books due to weight or font size, a Kindle is the perfect gift.
A Kindle is a lightweight device that is completely customizable. You can alter the font size so it is big enough to read without eye strain.
You can help your loved one download books for their Kindle through Amazon or even through their local library. The interface is relatively easy to navigate, which is friendly for seniors as well.
Comfortable Slippers
When your parent or loved one walks around their assisted living space, the last thing they need is cold feet. A pair of comfy slippers can easily take care of that problem.
Make sure to buy a model that has ant-slip grips on the bottom, especially if you have to worry about tile or hardwood flooring. These grips will help to prevent falls, making slippers one of the best elderly gift ideas.
Puzzle Books
It’s more important than ever to keep your mind sharp as you age, and seniors are no exception.
Puzzle books are one of the best gifts for senior citizens because they are easy to use and portable. All you need is a pencil or pen, and a flat surface to write.
Some of the best puzzles to improve cognitive functioning include:
- Crossword puzzles
- Word searches
- Logic puzzles
- Sudoku
- Jigsaw puzzles
Ask your loved one what their favorite type of puzzle is before you make the purchase. You may even be able to sign up for a subscription service, where they get puzzles delivered to them regularly.
A Medical Alert System
Do you worry about your loved one not receiving the help they need if there is an emergency? A medical alert system is the best of both worlds.
Most medical alert systems are fairly easy to use. Your parent or loved one can get in touch with emergency services with the push of a button.
These types of gifts may not be the most stylish, but they can certainly give you peace of mind.
A Customized Photo Album
Looking at old photos is a great way to pass the time and keep memories sharp. Consider buying your elderly loved one a customized photo album.
You can pick out all of the pictures inside of the album and have them turned into a beautiful book. These types of albums are especially helpful for seniors who suffer from dementia. They can reflect on the past and keep their memory stronger through reliving experiences.
A Bird Feeder
If your loved one has a window to watch birds, then a bird feeder is a great gift option. There’s nothing quite like watching different birds approach to have a snack at your bird feeder.
For seniors, it’s best to find a model that is easy to refill. If needed, you can always refill the feeder so your loved one won’t have to worry about lifting a heavy bag of birdseed.
A Spa Gift Certificate
Nothing is quite like a relaxing day at a spa. As your loved one grows older, self-care is even more important.
For instance, regular massages can help ease joint pain from arthritis and create a relaxing environment.
Give them a gift certificate to a nearby spa. Preferably, find one that has experience with seniors. The technicians will know all about the limitations of the body and where they should be careful.
The Best Gifts for the Elderly
If you’re still searching for the best gifts for the elderly, consider using the information in this list. You’ll find your loved one a gift they will cherish forever.
One of the best gifts you can give to an aging parent or relative is a wonderful retirement community. At Morada Senior Living Midwest City, we’re here to provide a premier experience.
Our wide range of amenities and considerable quality of life help us stand out among other senior care communities. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour.
