Looking for meaningful ways to show your aging parent or loved one much you care this holiday season? When it comes to celebrating the holidays with seniors in your life, you may want to explore different ways to make the day special, particularly if they live in a senior living community or require additional support.
As you gear up for this year’s holiday shopping, consider these holiday gift ideas for the elderly loved ones in your life.
Family Photos
A photo of your family together makes a great gift for the holidays. Frame a photo of the grandkids, make an entire album that your loved one can proudly display on their coffee table or turn family pictures into a custom photo calendar that they can use all year long. You can also upgrade their photo game with a digital photo frame. Digital picture frames hold thousands of photos and can be updated remotely. You and other family members can share new pictures with your loved one in real-time throughout the year.
Technology
Give the special senior in your life the gift of technology with a tablet device, smartphone, headphones, an e-reader or a safety-enhancing medical alert system. From wearable devices that prevent falls to video applications that enable seniors to connect with loved ones from afar, today’s technology is designed for convenience with the added benefit of making life easier and safer for old adults.
A Monthly Subscription
What does your senior parent or loved one enjoy? A monthly subscription is the perfect way to continue gifting your loved one throughout the year. Some great subscription options for the holidays include:
- Audiobooks
- Coffee or tea
- Flowers
- Magazines
- Meal delivery
A Day Out
Depending on your loved one’s mobility, it can be fun to take them out for a special day doing all the things they love. This may include eating breakfast at their favorite restaurant, getting a massage, visiting a local museum or enjoying ice cream with the grandkids at their favorite park. The holiday season can provide the perfect opportunity to get your aging parent out of the house while creating special memories together.
Quality Time
The right holiday gift will depend on your loved one’s interests. For most seniors, the very best gift you can give is your time. If you live nearby, set up a day to have a meal together. Make their favorite dish and bring it to them at their senior living community; or if they love to cook, prepare it together. If your loved one resides in a senior living facility, check out the community’s activity calendar for special holiday events or brunches that you can attend with them. If you can’t be there in person, send a package or set up a video call. Your loved one will feel special this holiday season just knowing you are thinking about them.
As the holidays near, use this time to create meaningful memories and show the special seniors in your life the love and appreciation they deserve. The best gifts are those that come from the heart to make your loved one’s holiday season unforgettable.
