As we grow older, our priorities greatly change. Christmas giving to seniors takes on new meaning compared to their wants and needs of years ago.
It’s been a distinct pleasure to have lived closely to some of our county’s senior citizens this past year. Some have passed on, some are homebound, and others are still getting around and doing for themselves and others. I asked the residents of a local 55+ community and a Facebook group of seniors for ideas on what types of gifts they would enjoy receiving this holiday season……
*Time with family and friends is most important to them. They love having visitors, both young and old. Even if it’s a pop in for 15 minutes, or a long stay that may include coffee, tea and lunch.
*Gift cards – grocery, food delivery, clothing, gas, etc.
*Postage stamps
*Assorted greeting cards
*Home-cooked meals
*A “day out” with you at a place of their choice
*Paper products (how about a basket full of paper towels, toilet paper, hand soaps, etc.)
*Help with utility meals
*A nice long telephone chat, especially if you are far away
*Always mentioned in every wish from everyone is “World Peace”
*Goodies – cookies, cakes, pies (make freezable)
*Roomba vacuum cleaner
*Gifts for the brain – puzzles, word search and crossword puzzle books, trivia books, coloring books w/markers
*Gift baskets – include some of the ideas mentioned here
Wi-Fi digital photo frame
*A year of housekeeping by a trusted friend of cleaning service
*Stuff a stocking with chapstick, hand cream or lotion, breath mints, cough drops, travel size *Kleenex, snack-size crackers and cookies, nuts
*Memories with family and friends
*Visits from grandchildren with lots of hugs
*Take me to a movie, to a salon, a mani/pedi, a cleaning day
*Family conflict resolution
*Tools
*Family to visit without checking their phones every two minutes
*Acknowledgement – phone call, card
*Gift certificates for utilities – phone, electric, heat
*Massage gift certificate
*A gift box or basket with vegetables and fruit
*Photos, new towels for kitchen or bath
*Money
*Take me to a Christmas light display followed by some hot chocolate
*Sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves
*Home-baked Christmas goodies and boxed chocolates or fudge
*Lottery tickets
*Supplies so I can feed the birds this winter
*Wine and charcuterie board
*Send me a monthly gift throughout 2025. Something small, but just to let me know I’m thought of
*Gift certificate for a genuine sleigh ride
*Certificate for a dog sled ride
*A new house coat (robe) or bed jacket
*Gift certificate for books
*I am in remission. Take me somewhere I’ve never been
*Uber/Insta Cart certificates
