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When my mom and dad lived at the nursing home, it was always challenging to find Christmas presents for them. Like many parents, they said they didn’t need anything. But, of course, we wanted to give them something. Plus, we wanted the gifts to be enjoyable, useful, and they had to fit within the limited space in Mom’s & Dad’s room.
To make your shopping easier this year, I’ve come up with a list of great gift options for people living in senior living communities. I’ve based most of these ideas on gifts I’ve seen residents receive at the nursing home. Please feel free to add your suggestions in the comment section!
- Subscription to their hometown newspaper
- Gift certificate to the facility beauty salon
- Adult coloring books, crossword puzzle books, or Sudoku books
- Homemade cookies, pie, or other favorite treats (Please check dietary restrictions first.)
- Photo calendar with pictures of grandchildren (easily created on sites like Snapfish, Vistaprint, or Shutterfly)
- A meal from their favorite fancy restaurant
- Magazine subscription or vintage magazines from an antique store
- Scrapbook with copies of old family photos
- Guestbook where visitors can write notes
You’ll also want to consider these highly-rated gifts from Amazon. Simply click on each image to see the details.
Share precious family photos with a digital photo frame.
A roll-up puzzle mat is a perfect gift for people who enjoy jigsaw puzzles.
I love this pretty hand-held fan.
An Amaryllis bulb is so much fun to grow and the flowers are gorgeous!
I like this calculator because it’s easy to read and has large buttons.
This pretty magnifying glass necklace is a big help when looking at small items.
Please also check out my updated gift guide for 2019!
bn100 says
lots of nice ideas
Diane says
I’m glad you find them helpful. Thanks for visiting my blog.
Sheila V says
I also like to give: audiobooks because often their sight is poor for reading, non slip cozy socks, & small wrapped gifts & holiday treats for them to give to staff members.
Diane says
Hi Sheila,
Those are great ideas. Thanks for sharing!
Nancy Schneider says
You have provided some great ideas. I would suggest a “gift of time.” Pledge to visit. Play games with the resident (if he/she is able.) Give him/her a manicure/pedicure. Look through photographs. Share a meal together. Just be there. It will brighten his/her day!
Diane says
Hi Nancy,
You make an excellent point. The gift of time is the best gift of all!
Rachel Obrien says
One time I bought a candy dish, got some candy like gummies, and a gift card to the dollar store. The residents at the time, that was one of their outings was shopping at the dollar store. Then I wrapped it like a little gift basket. And we use them for Bingo prizes! They really loved it and all in all it only cost about $7.
Diane says
Hi Rachel,
I’m honored to have you stop by my blog! Thanks for sharing this fun idea.