Many seniors have spent their lives accumulating possessions and seem to have everything. In fact they are in the position of needing to downsize and eliminate some of their possessions. When it comes to gift giving for these persons what do you do? Here is some inspiration for the challenged gift giver:
1. Gift certificate for massages/facials. If the senior is not used to doing these then you may need to follow up by making an appointment for them and providing transport if necessary. This will avoid it sitting in a drawer somewhere.
2. Movie, concert or play tickets. Again you might want to add transportation particularly if these events are taking place at nights since seniors may not like to drive themselves.
3. Upgraded tickets for sporting events such as cricket or football
4. Fruit/wine baskets
5. Providing a needed repair or servicing. For example does a room need painting or a roof need repairing? Does the senior’s car need new tyres or servicing? Just get it done. Don’tt worry that it may not be very exciting. If it meets a real need it will be very appreciated
6. Cleaning/gardening services. You can choose to make this a one time event or promise to pay at specified times
7. Have meals delivered. Many seniors don’t eat as well as they should because they can’t be bothered to cook or may not have the energy to do so. Having nutritious and delicious meals delivered to the house from time to time is a wonderful gift. If the portions are generous the meal may serve more than once. OF course dietary needs should be considered
8. Photo albums or video of the family. This will be particularly appreciated if the family is spread out.
9. Gift certificates. Choose places where they can get a range of goods such as Amazon.com for online ordering or department stores with a variety of goods. Again you may need to offer transportation and follow up to make sure that they are used.
We said 9 but here is a bonus that is perfectly free
10. Your time! This may be the best gift of all over the holiday season. Put aside several hours just to sit and chat with the seniors in your life. Be creative – it doesn’t just have to be at home. Grab your car keys and head to the park or the hills and just sit and spend time with them.
Finally remember the reason for the season. Don’t get so stressed about getting the perfect gift that you forget that the best gift of all is love. Happy Holidays!
middlingthrough 