It can be tough to find the perfect gift for seniors living in personal care or memory care communities. They may already have everything they need—and a limited amount of space to keep new items may also become an issue.
Some of the gifts we recommend for seniors in assisted living, personal care and memory care include comfortable clothing, personalized gifts, technology, food and snacks, and art supplies.
These may seem like broad ideas, but you know your loved one best. You will typically have a good idea of the specific things they may find useful or appreciate the most. Many seniors go through a period of downsizing when moving into a senior community and may not want a lot of new items. So, small, thoughtful gifts may have the most impact.
Gift Ideas for Seniors in Assisted Living & Memory Care
Even if nothing specific in these categories speaks to you, they may spark an idea for the perfect gift for your loved one.
Comfortable Clothing
Many seniors appreciate comfortable clothing, especially during colder months. Sweaters, blankets, socks, or slippers are all great ideas for colder temperatures. Lightweight clothing and accessories can provide comfort when warm weather returns.
Focus on the feel of the clothing. Try to choose clothes made of soft and breathable materials to avoid irritation or skin chafing. Avoid clothing with complex buttons or zippers that may be difficult to put on.
Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts are always a great option. You can find many retailers that offer personalized mugs, picture frames, blankets, or jewelry. Choose a family photo or a picture that represents a special moment in their life.
You can also create a personalized DIY gift. Try making a photo album or scrapbook with pictures and memories from your loved one’s life. In addition, you can add memorabilia such as travel tickets or concert stubs.
Technology
Technology is not just for the younger generation—it can also benefit seniors. You can give them a tablet, smartphone, or e-reader. Tablets are great for playing games, reading books, or watching movies. Smartphones can help older adults connect with family and friends through video chat or text messaging. E-readers help make it easier to read new books without having to leave home, and the text size can be increased for easy reading.
Wearable technology has also grown in popularity in recent years. There are various smart watches available that can provide unique benefits for seniors. A health-tracking watch could be a great gift that can add to your loved one’s everyday safety in addition to their everyday enjoyment.
Food & Snacks
Many communities include a nutritious dining experience that accounts for their residents’ main nutrition needs. But a senior might be out of luck if they have specific foods or snacks they enjoy on occasion.
So, another great gift idea for seniors in personal care, assisted living, or memory care communities is to get them specific food and snacks they might not be able to get easily otherwise. Choose snacks that are easy to eat and don’t require much preparation. Consider their dietary restrictions too, such as low sodium, low fat, or low sugar dietary needs.
Gift baskets with crackers, cheese, nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate are all good options to consider.
Art Supplies
Art can be beneficial for seniors with memory loss and dementia. It can give them an outlet for self-expression and help them create new memories. Gifting art supplies such as watercolor paint, markers, or coloring books can help stimulate their cognitive abilities and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Memory Journal
A memory journal is a personal space where your loved one can jot down their memories, feelings, and experiences. There isn’t a specific way a memory journal must be kept, which makes it a customizable and personal experience.
Memory journals are a great tool for mindfulness and can help your loved one appreciate the simple joys in life. Mindfulness practices, such as using a memory journal, could help older adults improve their mental and emotional well-being too.
Gifts from the Heart
At the end of the day, the perfect gift comes from the heart. We hope that some of the senior gift ideas we listed here have sparked an idea to help you choose a gift for your loved one.
One thing to remember is that many communities offer a wide range of services and experiences. So, when you’re choosing a gift, it’s a good idea to consider what your loved one already has available to them.
Give us a call if you have a loved one staying in Crescent Fields at Huntingdon Valley. We’re happy to let you know what types of amenities our residents have to help you plan for a gift.
