Living 60+ 2024 | Page 5

Thoughtful Gifts for Aging Parents

According to The Wrap Up : Snappy ’ s 2022 Holiday Gift Report , the majority of Americans ( 64.2 percent ) report they need help when it comes to holiday gifting . They may want to carefully consider a recipient ’ s interests , as the report also discovered more than half of all Americans want a gift that reflects their personal interests and hobbies . When shopping for elderly parents , it may not be as simple as identifying interests , particularly if Mom and Dad are experiencing age-related health issues . Consider these gift ideas that may be ideal for the aging adults in your life .
• Cozy blanket : Older adults may have trouble regulating their body temperatures , which can translate to feeling cold a lot of the time . A new blanket or throw for a bed or to cuddle up with in a favorite recliner might be the perfect gift .
• Family history book : Budding writers can interview their aging parents and jot down family stories . Those stories and anecdotes can be compiled into a book and combined with photos to make a family history log , which can be gifted back to the interviewee .
• Gripping slippers : Slips and falls can injure aging adults and put them out of commission for quite some time . Sturdy and secure slippers with anti-slip soles are good for getting around the house and making quick trips to take out the trash or get the mail .
• Robotic vacuum : Keeping up with the household chores is easier with a robotic vacuum that automatically scours carpets and hard-surface floors . This eliminates having to wrestle with a cumbersome vacuum .
• Key finder : A key finder can help adults find their keys if they are misplaced . Some employ radio frequency , while others utilize Bluetooth technology and can be paired to a smartphone .
• Magnifying light : Older parents who like to do puzzles or close-up work like knitting or stitching can benefit from an LED lamp that also has a magnifying glass built right in .
Living 60 + / September 2024 / News & Tribune 5