Gift Ideas for Senior Citizens

As people get older, it gets harder and harder to buy gifts for them. Most older people are trying to downsize. They don't want anymore "junk", or anything else that needs to be dusted. Over the years, they have collected enough nic-nacs to fill a whole museum. You are at your wits end, trying in vain to find something suitable. As you wander through the department store, you search aimlessly for that perfect gift. Gift shopping becomes a dreaded chore for you.

You probably want to find something personal; something your loved one will really appreciate. Well, it's time to start thinking practical. Think of something useful, something that would be appreciated and really used. Something a senior citizen would apprecitate. Over the years, I have given many practical gifts. Although they are sometimes thought of as odd gifts, they are much more appropriate than some other things. Most senior citizens have drawers full of neckties, handkerchiefs, dusting powder, and picture frames. I also don't recommend gift cards, unless you are absolutely sure the recipient will use it. Gift cards are frequently tucked into a wallet and forgotten.

OK, now it's time to think about the people you're buying for. Think about what they do everyday, and buy something appropriate for them.

*Do they read the newspaper? Subscriptions are rather costly, and really cut into a fixed income. Many senior citizens enjoy staying in touch with the world by reading the newspaper. They may have to cancel their subscriptions to use that money for more important things.

*Many older people enjoy watching birds. A gift of a bird feeder and bird food would really be appreciated. A bird book might help them pass the time, too.

* If the person you are buying for frequently gives gifts, you could give a gift basket full of supplies. Gift wrap, gift bags, ribbon, tape, and scissors make a very useful gift. The cost of those items can be prohibitive to an senior citizen.

*Something we all need, and use regularly, is stamps. A book, or roll, of stamps makes a great gift. If you buy a roll of stamps, pick up a pretty stamp holder to go along with the stamps.

*Blank note cards and all-occasion cards would be nice to have on hand. Greeting cards have become very expensive. A nice boxed assortment would help your older friend/relative stay in touch.

*Hearing aid batteries are rather expensive, and an older person might not be able to afford to have them on hand. A couple packages of batteries would definitely be put to use.

*Check to make sure your older friend/relative has a working smoke alarm, and small fire extinguisher. They might not be things you think about, but they might save your loved ones life.

*Hand made coupons would really come from the heart. Coupons could be for "Lunch out with me", "A trip to the park", "Helping you plant your flowers", etc. Think about what the person might need help with, but would be afraid to ask.

The next time you need a gift for a senior citizen, don't waste your time and money at the department store. Think about that person, and come up with something personal and useful. You'll be glad you did ... and so will they.