Best Christmas Gifts for Seniors: Top 19 Holiday Gift Ideas
If you're finding it hard to come up with the perfect gift for your parent or grandparent this holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! Finding the perfect gift for your parents or grandparents can be tricky, especially if you're not exactly sure of what they would enjoy or need. Despite that, there are plenty of lovely gifts out there today that can satisfy any elder person on your list — from meaningful experiences or thoughtful keepsakes they can enjoy long after December 25th rolls around or technology that can improve their quality of life. We've got some creative ideas here to help make sure that special gift recipient has an especially merry holiday.
1. Non-slip socks or slippers
Elderly people will appreciate the comfort and safety of non-slip socks or slippers, especially since they are more prone to slips and falls. You can also go for compression socks, which have a unique design that relieves swelling in the legs, increases circulation and helps reduce fatigue. Make sure to choose a pair of colourful socks or slippers that they will love.
Suggested Reading: 8 Key Slip and Fall Statistics in Australia and New Zealand
2. Smart home devices
Seniors are increasingly becoming more tech-savvy and can benefit from the convenience of having a smart home device to help them keep track of everyday tasks, like setting reminders and timers, controlling lights and appliances, checking the weather forecast and more. Gift your senior with one of these and they'll be sure to love it.
3. Tablet
Research from National Seniors Australia shows that, over the past 4 years, older Australians have made huge improvements when it comes to their digital skills. The use of tablets for those aged 80 and over has even increased from 11 to 19 percent. Tablets are becoming increasingly popular among seniors because it gives them the ability to access the internet, watch movies and TV shows, listen to music and connect with family members all in one device. Plus, many tablets come with pre-loaded apps that make it easy for a senior to stay connected with others and stay up to date with the latest news.
Related reading: Top 10 Benefits of Technology for Seniors
4. Massage pillow
Massage pillows are a great way to relax the muscles, and they come in many different styles. From heated massage pillows to vibrating ones, there's something for everyone. Plus, they're easy to use and store away when not in use. This is perfect for people who experience chronic pain and stiffness, or those who just need a little extra relaxation.
5. Puzzle books or board games
Who doesn't love a good game or puzzle? Board games, card games and puzzles are great gifts for seniors because they provide hours of entertainment. Plus, some board games and puzzles even offer cognitive benefits — like helping improve memory, concentration and problem-solving skills.
Related reading: 5 Stimulating and Helpful Home Activities for People With Dementia
6. Electric toothbrush
Make dental hygiene easier and more enjoyable for your elderly loved ones with an electric toothbrush. These devices come with special features like timers and reminder alerts that make brushing more efficient, and many of them can be connected to a smartphone for additional guidance. Electric toothbrushes also offer superior cleaning power compared to manual ones.
7. Smart speaker
Smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home are great gifts for seniors who want to stay connected with family members, get help with everyday tasks, listen to music, and more. Plus, many of these devices come with voice command features, making them easier to use.
8. Headphones or Airpods
Here's one if your senior loved ones are music lovers. Get them a pair of noise-cancelling headphones or Airpods to help them listen to their favourite tunes in peace. Plus, they make great travel companions, so your loved one can take them with them on the go.
9. Gardening tools
If your loved one enjoys gardening, give them a set of high-quality gardening tools that they can use to tend their garden. Make sure the tools are comfortable to hold and easy to use so they can enjoy their time outdoors.
10. Photo book
Turn your loved one's favourite photos into a beautiful photo book. Include family photos, scenic shots of their favourite places, and any other images that bring back fond memories. They can keep the book on display in their home or pass it along to future generations. You can also opt for a digital photo frame, which can be updated with new photos each month.
11. Homemade food
Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade food gift. Prepare a wonderful meal that your loved one enjoys, such as their favourite cookies or a batch of homemade jam. Include a handwritten note to make it even more special. Maybe you could even give them the gift of time and share a special meal with them this holiday season.
12. E-reader
If your senior is an avid reader, consider buying them an e-reader. This way, they can access a seemingly endless library of books without having to lug around bulky hardcover volumes
13. Fitness tracker
A fitness tracker is a great way to motivate seniors to stay active. Choose one with features like heart rate monitoring and step counting that will encourage them to reach their health goals for the year.
14. Subscription service
Gift your loved one a subscription service they can enjoy all year long. Whether it's a streaming music or movie service, or monthly deliveries of food, books, or other items, this is a thoughtful and practical present. Here are a few suggestions:
Audiobooks
Arts and Crafts Boxes
Meal kits
Coffee Subscription Box
15. Online cooking classes or other online classes
These days, there are plenty of online classes your parents or grandparents can take from the comfort of their own homes. From cooking classes to language courses, these are great gifts for the intellectually curious seniors in your life. This practical gift is something your senior loved one will love especially if you choose one that they're interested in.
16. Weighted blanket or heated blanket
Weighted blankets or heated blankets are great gifts for those who need extra comfort and warmth at night. Choose a cozy blanket with soft materials, a good weight, and adjustable temperature settings for maximum coziness. A 2020 study by Swedish researchers found that those who used the weighted blanket had less insomnia and reduced fatigue, depression, or anxiety during the day. Since weighted blankets are known to reduce anxiety and improve the quality of sleep, this makes them the perfect gif for seniors suffering from insomnia.
17. Sleep sound machine
The Sleep Health Foundation has found that between 33%-45% of people in Australia sleep poorly or not long enough most nights. This leads to fatigue, poor mood, lower productivity and a range of health problems which can be more difficult for older people. A sleep sound machine can help your senior loved one relax and get a good night's rest. Look for one with soothing audio, adjustable volume settings, and different light modes so they can find the perfect sound to help them drift off to sleep.
18. Personal alarm
A personal alarm is a great present for seniors who want to stay safe even when living independently. Choose an alarm with features like GPS tracking, fall detection and two-way communication, like the Tunstall Gem4, - ensuring the wearer can enjoy life to the fullest wherever they are, and giving the gift of peace of mind to both them and you.
19. Your time
Perhaps the best gift of all is your time. Make it a priority to spend quality time with your loved one this Christmas, whether it's having lunch together, listening to music or simply chatting about life. It’s an invaluable gift that will be cherished more than any material item.
Suggested Reading: How to Connect Older and Younger Family Members
“Wrapping up”
These are just a few of the many thoughtful gifts you can give your parents or grandparents this holiday season. Make sure to choose something that is meaningful and practical for them, so they can enjoy it for years to come.
However you choose to spend your holidays, or who you choose to spend it with, we wish you a very Merry Christmas from all of us at Tunstall Healthcare.
