by Jennifer Watson

Created on: July 23, 2010

Giving a gift to someone who has basically everything they could want or need is a real challenge. Some individuals live very simply and don't like the idea of clutter so they really don't want decorative items or knick-knacks. Others have the financial means to purchase everything they want or need and usually have already done so. So how then do we gift givers deal with this situation, especially when we feel obligated to buy a gift for them.

First if the person is older and just does not need something else to collect dust and they have all the clothes they could ever want, go simple. Purchase things they can actually use. Some of the following are good gift ideas for the elderly.

1.Postage stamps, envelopes, stationary, pens, pencils or an address book.

2. Household items such as toilet tissue, soap, cleansers, detergents, toothpastes, toothbrushes , deodorants or shampoo.

3. Food staples such as canned meats, coffee, cereal or anything else they use on a regular basis.

If you decide to go with one of the above items, purchase a nice basket to deliver them in. It makes it look more like a real gift. This type of gift can be a godsend to an elderly person on a fixed income.

If the person simply has all the money they need, don't buy them anything. Make them a nice desert and place it in a pretty basket and deliver it in person. Make up a food basket to show them that you purchased it and are donating it in their name to a food bank for the needy. Make a donation in their name to their favorite charity. Let them know you are doing so.

Phone calls can be a wonderful gift for anyone. It doesn't cost much but shows that you care, Even the wealthy get lonely and need to be remembered by a good friend now and again.

Remember that the whole purpose is giving a gift in the first place is to show them you care about them. Anything you do or buy should be given from the heart or it won't mean much. Just because they may not need or want for anything doesn't mean they don't want to be remembered on special occasions. Everyone has a birthday and most people celebrate holidays. None of us want to feel left out. Don't give up trying to give these individuals a gift just because it requires a little more time and effort. They too will appreciate it.

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