What's a good gift for an elderly person who doesn't need more "stuff" cluttering up the house? December is the biggest gift-giving season, but all year long we're faced with birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions when we have to find great gift ideas for seniors.
The best gift for an elderly person is your time and attention: time to talk, to listen, to do things together. That noted, there's also a great deal to be said for something to unwrap. Here are some gift ideas for seniors:
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Gift Certificates/Prepaid Cards For Seniors: | |
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To a variety or department store |
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To a favorite craft or hobby shop |
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For a haircut or manicure |
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From a favorite bookstore |
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For a home cleaning service |
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For handyman services |
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For window washing |
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For groceries |
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To a favorite restaurant |
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For movie rentals |
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From the pharmacy |
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For transportation |
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For exterminator service |
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For electricity or gas |
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For the telephone |
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For the veterinarian |
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For takeout/delivered food |
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For car service/wash/detailing |
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For yard or lawn service |
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To a movie or the theater |
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Handy Tools & Equipment Most Seniors Appreciate | |
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Jar opener |
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Large dial or amplified telephone |
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Wireless TV headphone |
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Easy to read watch or clock |
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Lap board |
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Attractive night light |
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Automatic light timer |
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Weather radio |
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Rechargeable batteries & charger |
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Ergonomic kitchen or garden tools |
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Large dial radio |
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Seat riser |
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Large button TV remote |
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Electric teapot with automatic turn-off |
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Doorknob extender |
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Magnifier |
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Reacher/grabber |
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Hand-held shower head |
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Gift Ideas For The "Senior Body": | |
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Bed socks |
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Cape or poncho for wheelchair users |
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Slipper socks |
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Sock or zipper puller |
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Comfortable pillows |
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Flannel sheets |
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Bed jacket or wrap |
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Cozy lap blanket |
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Plush bath towels |
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Extended shoe horn |
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Heating pad |
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Basket of manicure tools, lotions, tissues |
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Non-slip slippers |
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Subscription to favorite magazine or paper |
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Large print book or book on tape |
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Food & treats for the pet |
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Binoculars |
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Bird feeder and seeds |
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Outdoor thermometer |
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Rain gauge |
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Oversized playing cards and holder |
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Stationery and stamps |
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Disposable camera with developing |
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Greeting cards for all occasions |
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Large print calendar |
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Large print crossword puzzles |
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Album or frame of family photos |
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Armchair bag for remote, book, glasses, etc. |
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Puzzle and mat |
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Family videos |
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Large print address book & help transferring information |
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Favorite candy, nuts & nibbles |
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Favorite old movie(s) on tape or DVD |
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Safety Gift Ideas For Seniors: | |
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Emergency response system |
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Automobile club membership |
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911 cell phone |
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Smoke or carbon monoxide detector |
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Rolling shopping cart |
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Fire extinguisher |
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Grab bars installed |
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First aid kit |
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Auto emergency kit |
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Prepaid chimney cleaning |
Be sure to think through your choice of gifts. If Aunt Mary is a full-time caregiver for Uncle Joe, how about offering to stay with him so she can have an afternoon off to shop with her gift certificate or enjoy her movie tickets with a friend?
If your mother battles a weight problem, will she really appreciate that box of candy? Does anyone really need another box of dusting powder? Your gift will be most appreciated when it's evident that you've made a real effort to choose something really special for that very special person.
(You'll find most of these items and a number of other interesting possibilities in the Senior Corner Store)
Comments or questions?
Please post them in the Discussion Forum