Buying gifts for grandparents can be difficult. Typically, they have everything they need. Many are downsizing and looking to have less. Unless you happen to notice something wearing out or are lucky enough to be there when Grandma drops a hint, chances are you are wandering the mall. Another sweater? Perfume? Knick Knacks? You’ve done it all before! What will you do? Here are some ideas.
The gift of time and/or services.. If you live close enough for this to be practical give a home made gift certificate for something that needs to be done around the house-wash the windows and curtains, plant or weed the garden, rent a cleaner and do the rugs. Do the grocery shopping, run errands etc.
If you live too far away, prepay for lawn mowing or snow shoveling. You can also prepay cable or other services. Gift certificates and menus for restaurants that deliver are always a hit.
A Day Out. Tickets for local theater productions, gift certificates for lunch etc. Drive her where ever she needs to go for errands and take her for Tea. Once you start thinking about it=there are lots of ideas. If your Grandparent is a caretaker for a house bound spouse, the gift of tickets for her and a friend to go out for the day coupled with your commitment to stay with grandpa can be a real treat.
Baskets of little practical things . Many seniors live on a fixed income and little things add up. A basket with new pens, note cards and a book of stamps are always appreciated. Baskets are a great way to combine a number of small items.
Large Print Books or Books on Tape. Like it or not, most of us will have impaired vision as we age.
The latest best seller on tape makes a great gift.
The point of any gifting should be an expression of love and not simply the marking of a day on the calendar. If you approach gifting with your heart, you’ll make a great choice.