Gift Ideas for Elderly Parents

With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day fast approaching, many of us are stumped as to what to buy for an elderly parent.  Experts suggest you keep in mind they most likely do not need a lot of “things” but would appreciate something that helps to make their lives easier and/or more enjoyable. 

As many elderly adults get cold easily, a comfy, soft throw blanket makes for a good gift.  Another thoughtful gift especially for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is a customized photo blanket.  They can be ordered through several large retailers and are not too expensive.  If your parent is a music lover, expand their collection with popular songs from their younger days, and if they don’t already have one, buy them a portable boom box that is easy to use.

Another gift idea is to get them a phone or simplified tablet that will let them facetime, enjoy family photos, and browse the Internet.  Gift baskets filled with favorite foods or new soaps and lotions, non-skid soled slippers or compression socks also are appreciated by seniors.  Other ideas include large-print playing cards, puzzles, and adult coloring books with a new set of markers. 

If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help.  Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky. 

If you are looking for dementia care in the Colorado Springs area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Bear Creek.  Our specially trained staff provides personalized care for residents using progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. The goal of MorningStar’s methods is to affirm dignity and value of each resident and to support choice and independence as much as possible.

MorningStar at Bear Creek embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about our unique approach to dementia care.