It’s a busy time of year and you may find yourself scrambling to find gifts for everyone on your list. Maybe you’re wondering what to buy Grandpa this year, or you'd like to find something “out of the box” and unexpected. If you’re looking for gift inspiration, Senior Services Expert Lori Williams has a shopping guide for the holiday season.

There are many solid options that are standard for elderly loved ones, such as self-care gifts. Cozy blankets, pajamas, robes, and slippers are usually a win. You can also monogram gifts to make them more personal. Also, consider aromatherapy like an essential oil diffuser for a safer alternative to candles. Try a nail salon gift card if you haven’t already and your loved one enjoys a fresh manicure.

You can also find cost-efficient gifts with utility. For example, the reacher grabber tools. This is great for picking things off the floor or reaching items that are higher up - and it helps keep your loved ones safe. Grip socks are another great way to keep your loved one safe from falls and keep their feet warm too. Also, gift certificates to places like Target or Walmart allow them flexibility to get what they need.

Activity-based gifts and experiences

Does your loved one enjoy something hands-on? Try branching out with an adult coloring book. If your loved one has expressed interest in learning how to craft (like crocheting), see if your local craft store offers classes. For active seniors, you could also consider a membership to a local senior center or a YMCA Silver Sneakers program, or give them a few yoga classes, to help them stay healthy. Another great idea is to take a little road trip to where they grew up or have memories - you may hear stories you’ve never heard before.

Finally, remember that gifts don’t have to be expensive; it’s the thought that counts. Think about what your loved one enjoys and you’re well on your way to brightening their holiday season.

Topics discussed:

- Gifts for grandparents

- Senior shopping guide

- Popular senior gifts

- Self-care gifts

- Experience gifts

- Classes and gift certificates

Takeaways from this episode:

-A smart speaker (“Alexa” or "Google Mini") is an enjoyable tool seniors can use to play music. They can also program it to use as a phone, so if they experience a fall, they can say, “Alexa, call 911” and receive help.

-Seniors tend to become cold, so the gift of warmth and coziness is usually a great one to give.

-Seniors’ skin can be a little more sensitive and become thinner and drier. Consider different ways to help them stay hydrated and moisturized.

-Gifts can be simple, such as a coffee and donuts date, or learning to bake cookies or decorate cakes together.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

016. The Power of Essential Oils and How They Can Help Seniors

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/79e458a0/016-the-power-of-essential-oils-and-how-they-can-help-seniors

Senior Sneakers online membership:

https://tools.silversneakers.com/

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