BUYING A PRESENT FOR AN ELDERLY FRIEND, NEIGHBOUR OR RELATIVE By Christina Uppenkamp - Home Instead Of course, with foods we do need to give a thought to any changing preferences or allergies they may now be managing. Clothing: Many senior folk really feel the cold, and may be worried about energy costs, so a new and jolly piece of clothing, that makes them feel snug, will be most welcome. How about warm socks, fingerless mitts, soft scarfs, slippers (new ones may prevent a fall), fleece pyjamas, or new dressing gowns…. Music: Music is the language of the soul! It can lift moods and bring back many happy memories. We can of course browse and buy online for their favourite pieces or artist. Do think about the equipment your loved one is familiar with… MP3 or CD or Tapes even! Don’t forget to buy some headphones so the neighbours Time: Enjoying time with others aren’t disturbed. is core to our emotional needs, especially after having to stay apart Audio Books or Video: Great for for so long these past 20+ months. those cold winter evenings and ideal Good company is always welcome, for someone who now finds it hard and it shows you want to spend to get out…… There are loads to time with them too! Giving them choose from – different eras, box-set an event or trip to look forward to series, life histories, explorer’s tales, (in say February) can really help political memoirs, old comedies (e.g. lift the winter blues. And the fun Flanders & Swan or The Goons), and doesn’t stop with the trip itself – they of course romance or general fiction. create great memories that can be Videos are also welcome – try and recounted to others or relived in find out their favourite or meaningful film or a perhaps seek a box set from quiet moments. the distant past that they’ll enjoy. Yum Yum: Everyone loves a varied and exciting food parcel! Customised Hobby gifts: Crafts and other hobbies hampers from a deli, or perhaps a really help with mental stimulation, homemade cake really show you’ve dexterity and of course mood. thought about your loved one. If Everyone loves to show off their they don’t have a sweet tooth, try latest creation….. So why not seek a a selection of their favourite teas, or painting or sewing set, or perhaps a perhaps some foods that will bring colouring book (therapeutic & fun), back memories, for example from or weaving set, or puzzle set. where they used to live or visit. …. If you’re like me, your mind may go blank when it comes to buying gifts for loved ones! As Christmas is almost upon us I thought you may like a few suggestions for presents for an elderly friend, neighbour or relative…..
Pamper gifts: Soaps, perfumes, manicure, massage…. Perhaps subscription to a weekly or monthly magazine – they’ll feel pampered each time it arrives! Practical Gifts: Smoke alarms, torches, hot water bottles, new electric blanket, kettle or iron (this will help with home safety too – it’s amazingly easy for a worn out item to be overlooked), or perhaps an easy to use radio, with a large day & date display….. How about something for outside?.... Boot removers, new walking stick, litter-picker-handle (which is great around the house too), and for someone who likes to walk how about a florescent jacket, and perhaps a GPS tracker if they wander too far. Finally, why not ‘Be a Santa’ this Christmas by delivering a present to an elderly neighbour on Christmas Eve, and label it from Santa….. or even better, invite them to your home for Christmas Day – that‘s the best gift for a live-alone person! Hope this helps…. I best get to the shops now …. ! Brought to you by Christina Uppenkamp of Home Instead Dartford – specialising in bringing joy to the elderly through practical support and fun in their homes and nearby.
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