As we approach the holidays with COVID-19 still lingering, what can we get our aging parents to keep them connected and in the family loop? It is difficult to decide what to buy mom or dad, but maybe it will be easier this year as we are trying to keep connected and keep our loved ones healthy. 

Top Gifts for Aging Parents

1. GrandPad

The GrandPad is so very helpful to keep your aging parents connected and they feel a part of the memories your family is making. GrandPad comes accompanied with an app that allows your loved one to engage the mind with games or stay connected with family all over the country with a quick call or video chat. They also can read and download other items of interest to keep their mind active.

2. IPhone or GreatCall phone

Purchasing an IPhone or GreatCall phone are not the only options but great choices for seniors who you want to stay in touch with, especially with COVID-19 still among us. Sometimes screen size and font size can be an issue for aging parents, and both devices have options for seniors. Not only do they have options for screen size and font size, but they have voice commands which is great for parents that struggle with typing. GreatCall also has an emergency button that is very easy for seniors to use. 

3. Amazon Alexa or Dot 

Amazon Alexa or the smaller version the Dot are great devices to help with aging parents and most importantly those with dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease. Alexa is a great tool to answer questions to give caregivers a much needed break when they grow tired. Older parents with Alzheimer’s, dementia or ever stroke survivors can feel independent and learn about the weather, listen to music or books, and get basic facts that can get boring or tiresome for caregivers to constantly have to deliver the response. This device helps both aging parents and caregivers. 

4. Google Home

Google Home is very similar to Amazon Alexa, but also ties to your Google account and with your Google calendar. This is helpful when needing reminders for events and phone calls. You can connect safety cameras too, which is a great tool for caregivers worrying about their loved ones if they are alone.

5. ViewClix Smart Frame

Getting mom or dad a ViewClix Smart Frame is very easy. Only family members or others you give permission to can contribute photos. They can easily send their photos to the frame and your mom and dad can be in the loop and see what is happening with their children, grandchildren, or friends. This frame is an easy gift as it does not require parents to get a Google, Facebook, or an Amazon account. For a bonus feature you can video call too! This is an excellent gift for your parents in a senior living community. 

6. Keepsake Gifts: Photo album, Blanket, custom photo puzzle

Making keepsake gifts and delivering them to your loved one is priceless. Parents love homemade gifts and pictures in any format whether a puzzle or photo album or a photo calendar you make with a program offered by companies like Shutterfly or Walmart are awesome gifts. They keep giving all year long.

7. Weighted Blanket

For your loved one that may have battles with anxiety or dementia, the weighted blanket helps immensely. A weighted blanket is wonderful to relax and get a good night’s rest. There are many to choose from and Amazon has pretty good deals to get one for the holiday. 

8. Uber or Lyft Gift Card

Giving the mode of transportation helps aging parents tremendously. If they have appointments to get to for care or physical wellbeing, you cannot beat a ride prepaid. Also, it opens them up to meet friends and get a lift to a local coffee shop or restaurant. Transportation is freedom and a wonderful gift to aging parents.

9. Compression Socks

Compression socks are one of the many choices for clothing or personal items you can get your parents. It may feel small, but little things that help them stay healthy and feel great are valuable. You could even get shoes that help with their mobility. Small gifts that aid in health and mobility are always a good choice and they range in price to fit your budget too.

10. Gift certificate for personal services 

Finally getting a gift certificate for personal but almost luxury services is outstanding to aging parents. For example, get mom or dad a gift certificate to get a massage, pedicure, manicure or a haircut. These services make mom and dad feel special and help with general care as well as mental health. Feeling good about yourself as you age gives you purpose and happiness. Also, gift certificates can continue to give throughout the year depending on the service you choose or the frequency in which mom or dad can use them.

Finding that perfect gift for aging parents can be a challenge, but with COVID-19, try to remove the challenge and find gifts that engage the mind, body and soul. When loved ones feel lonely at times, “gifting” something that brings you together is a great way to say you care and love your spouse or parents. Need more help with guiding your aging loved one through the holidays? Maybe you need to start looking for assisted living. Contact Ann at Senior Living Options and she will help you to the right choices for living and even those special gifts you may wonder about for mom or dad this holiday season!

Author: Ann Jamison

Ann Jamison is an experienced senior advisor who has successfully worked with hundreds of families to help them find the best care and home-like environment for themselves or their loved ones. Prior to launching Senior Living Options, Ann was an eldercare advisor for a national placement agency and served as sales director at a senior living community. Thanks to her 25-year career in advertising sales and marketing, Ann is able to discern between hype and reality for her clients. Ann recognizes that there are objective factors that need to be weighed when making a life-changing decision, but she can also assess the important softer attributes by getting to know her clients and by using the gut instincts that can only come through extended experience.