by Kathryn Wilcox

Created on: November 25, 2010

What can we get Grandma for Christmas?  This is a common question that pops up in many families.  There are many wonderful gifts to give your elderly relatives other than an afghan or warm sweater. While these are great items, chances are, grandma already has more than enough of these. So what can you give? Thinking out of the box will allow you to give gifts that will last all year.  Opportunities to feel useful become fewer and fewer, and the feeling of worthlessness can lead to depression. Look for ways to stimulate, provide activity and companionship. These gifts are priceless.

 Offer to drive

 Is your elderly relative homebound?  Offer to drive wherever he would like to go. Shopping, out for a breakfast, to a movie or to church. Local Senior Center have a variety of activates such as lecture series, games, exercise classes and even bus trips. But just getting out with others to visit and tell stories will provide something to look forward to.

 Ask your elderly to teach you something

 For individuals who have been productive all their lives, feeling worthless can easily happen. Does Grandma know how to knit, crochet or darn socks? Does Grandpa know how to whittle, or make balloon animals? What about Grandmas special cookie recipe? Passing these talents on to you would make them feel like they have something special that they can give you. And the time together is great for telling family stories; there may be many you have never heard.

 Books on tape or CD.

 Does your elderly enjoy literature and can no longer read?  Books on tape and CD are a great way to keep their minds active even if their eyes are not as good as they used to be.

It is amazing how many different titles are available, and you don’t even have to buy them. Your local library will have a great selection. All you have to do is pick them up!

 Video games

 Elderly men especially and even women have discovered the fun of Nintendo or WII. These games not only provide entertainment they keep the mind active and if you get the WII sports game, Grandma and Grandpa can go bowling, or play tennis in their own home! 

 What about a computer?

 Many seniors have learned to use a computer and surf the Internet. This is again a way to keep mentally active. If you don’t have time to tutor your elderly, the Senior Citizens centers, YMCA, local colleges and schools sometimes offer classes.

 YMCA or other Activity Center membership

 These organizations now have many programs for the elderly. From water exercise to the well-known Silver Sneakers program, seniors are now enjoying a more active life as a result of these opportunities to stay physically fit.

 Once you carefully consider your elderly loved one’s situation, limitations and special qualities, you will be able to take advantage of some of these ideas or come up you’re your own creative gift that can prolong independence, provide stimulation or activity and will last all year.

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