Finding good gifts for seniors can sometimes be a considerable challenge. After all, many seniors have very particular tastes or more stuff than they know what to do with. How do you find a gift they’ll appreciate? It can be even harder if they insist they don’t need anything.
But there are plenty of ways you can make them feel special. For many seniors, the key elements of a gift are
practicality and functionality. (And sentimentality still plays a role in gifts for parents and grandparents.)
If you can give them something that will make their lives easier, healthier, or more fun, you can bring a smile
to their faces.
This guide includes plenty of thoughtful ideas for older men and women, elderly parents and grandparents, and
even those hard-to-buy-for people who already have everything. It also features dozens of ideas for older adults
with various health challenges or conditions, plus some fun fitness and health-promoting options. Read on to
discover how you can add a magic touch to a senior’s day!
In a hurry? These are our 10 most popular gifts for seniors on this list:
- Wi-fi Digital Photo Frame
- Weather Monitor
- Light Therapy Lamp
- Automatic Jar Opener
- Single-Serve Coffee Maker
- Monthly Gift Box Delivery
- Day Clock
- Robot Vacuum
- TV Listening Device
- My Life in a Book
This article contains affiliate links. We are compensated with a small commission, at no extra cost to you, for sales made through the links.
Fun & Practical Gifts for Elderly People
Are you stumped for gift ideas for the senior citizens in your life? Whether you’re searching for a fun
present for an older neighbor or a practical gift for an aging relative, you’ll get some inspiration from
this list. Check out these gift ideas for elderly people:
1. Apple iPhone
The iPhone makes an ideal gift for seniors. It has an easy-to-use interface and includes
accessibility features like large text options and compatibility with Apple AirPods Pro 2 hearing health and hearing aid
features. An iPhone supports independence and connection with FaceTime for staying
connected, health and safety tools like emergency SOS and fall detection, and location
tracking for peace of mind. Plus, the iPhone’s camera allows users to capture and share
precious moments.
2. iRobot Roomba vacuum
A robotic vacuum can be a smart and worthwhile investment for those struggling with cleaning
floors. Some models include Alexa device connectivity, allowing even more remote controlling
options. Robotic vacuums work best when the floor is uncluttered, so this may be worth
considering depending on the senior’s living environment.
3. Brain games
Puzzles and games that engage the brain offer numerous health benefits for older men and
women. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and sudoku books are great gifts for seniors who
enjoy a mental challenge.
4. Pill organizer
Keeping track of medications and when to take them gets increasingly difficult as people age, but
pill organizers can help. You can sort out a day’s, week’s, or month’s worth of medications and set
automatic alarms to alert your loved one when it’s time to take their pills. Be sure to look for a
model that has easy-to-open compartments.
5. Non-slip socks
How about a gift that combines fashion and function? Gripper socks with rubber grips on the bottom
can keep an older person’s feet toasty warm while preventing falls. You can choose from a huge range
of colors and styles for men and women.
6. Key finder
A key finder is one of the most useful gifts for the older adults in your life who constantly
misplace their house keys. Ranges vary, but some models work up to 300 feet away. Seniors with
smartphones may appreciate a finder that uses Bluetooth technology. Those who are old school may
prefer radio-frequency-based devices.
7. Sleep sound machine
Sleep issues are common among older people, but a sleep sound machine may be a good solution. These
devices generate calming white noise or nature sounds to help people relax and fall asleep faster.
Some models even adjust the sound level based on the surrounding noise.
8. Portable induction cooktop
Do you worry about the safety of your loved one in the kitchen? Induction cooktops can be good gifts
for elderly women and men because they only heat the pot, not the stovetop, which is safer. Note
that only certain kinds of pots will work on these cooktops, so be sure to check into that before
you buy.
9. Light therapy lamp
The dark days of winter can be enough to drag anyone down, but a lamp that mimics natural outdoor
light can help brighten your loved one’s day. Light therapy lamps can also be ideal for
mobility-challenged seniors who struggle to get outdoors.
10. Earthly’s Unpaper Towels
Reusable notpaper towels are washable and can be used instead of paper towels for napkins, cleaning
up spills, and wiping grandchildren’s sticky hands and faces. The unbleached fabric is absorbent,
durable, and environmentally friendly. The cute, bright lemon design will look great on your kitchen
counter.
11. Light-up magnifying mirror
Standing to look in the mirror while taking care of personal grooming can be a challenge for those
who can’t spend much (or any) time on their feet. Having a sturdy mirror placed on a desk, table,
counter, or dresser can make it much easier to take care of beauty and hygiene. The magnification
and light-up features make it easy to see yourself close up, especially if you have vision
difficulties.
12. Gift basket
When it comes to gift baskets, senior citizens often appreciate special treats or useful items that
can make their lives more stimulating. Depending on your loved one’s preferences, good things to
include might be wine, gourmet snacks, chocolate, puzzle books, or hobby supplies.
13. Apple Watch with fall detection
The Apple Watch SE is water-resistant, easy to set up and fully customizable, making it a great
choice for seniors. It includes important health and safety options like fall detection, crash
detection, and emergency SOS, along with some other fun aspects like fitness tracking and voice to
text.
Gifts for Parents
Gift ideas for parents can be hard to come by, particularly when they claim that they don’t want or need
anything (yet you still want to bring them a bit of cheer). Here are a few suggestions for gifts for parents
like that:
1. Scratch map
Are your parents the active globetrotting type? A wall map that allows them to scratch off the places
they’ve visited can be a unique way to document their adventures and a nice addition to a den or rec
room wall.
2. Throw blanket
A soft, cuddly throw blanket for the bed or couch can be just what your parents or grandparents need
to stay comfortable while they relax, read, or watch TV. Many throw blankets are lightweight and
easy to clean, and there are designs to suit every taste.
3. Weather monitor
Many elderly parents appreciate knowing the weather before going outside, so a device that displays
the current conditions and the forecast can make a great gift. Wireless systems require the
installation of an outdoor sensor, so you may want to take care of that yourself. Look for a monitor
with a large display that’s easy to read.
4. Golf range finder
Looking for gifts for an elderly man or woman who still likes to hit the links? A range finder can be
an excellent addition to an older person’s golf bag. These handy devices measure the distance to the
pin to help the golfer plan the next shot and select the appropriate club.
5. E-reader
If your mom or dad likes to relax with a good book, an e-reader might be just the gift that will
bring a smile to their face. E-readers are light and easy to use. You can even preload the devices
so that your parents can have dozens of titles right at their fingertips.
6. Wi-Fi digital photo frame
When you set up one of these Wi-Fi digital photo frames in your parents’ house, you can upload
pictures from your phone directly to the frame without them having to do a thing. (Such frames make
especially good gifts for elderly people in nursing homes.) Some models even include motion sensors
that turn the frame on to display the most recent photos when someone enters the room.
7. Single-serve coffee maker
Forget digging around for coffee grounds and filters. These single-serve coffee makers make brewing a
cup of joe easy and simple. Plus, Dad or Mom don’t have to brew a whole pot if they’re only going to
drink a cup or two.
8. Amazon Echo
Designed as a Wi-Fi-connected, voice-operated device that can perform a huge range of tasks, the
Amazon Echo can play music, give the weather forecast, offer alarms and reminders, and even control
the lights in a home. That makes it a great gift for older parents, particularly those with mobility
challenges. You may want to include a cheat sheet of verbal commands they can use to get the Echo to
perform the kinds of tasks they want.
Ideas for Grandparents
Does trying to think of gift ideas for the grandparents in your life have you scratching your head? We’ve got
you covered. Here are some suggestions for gifts that Grandma or Grandpa may appreciate:
1. Recordable book from grandkids
A recordable book is a personalized gift for grandparents that they will likely cherish forever. Very
young children (most books are meant for those under five) can record a story in their own voices
and have it play back when Grandma or Grandpa opens the book.
2. Adult coloring books
Who says coloring is just for kids? Adult coloring books offer senior citizens a fun way to relax and
relieve boredom and stress. Coloring is also an excellent activity for grandparents and
grandchildren to do together as a form of family bonding.
3. Grandparent Talk game
This game is a great way to bridge the conversational divide between the younger and older
generations. There are 100 cards with questions for grandkids to ask their grandparents, such as
“What was considered a snack when you were growing up?” and “Did you have a party line?” The answers
give curious children a sense of what life was like many years ago.
4. Automatic card shuffler
Grandparents who love playing card games like bridge or rummy (but whose motor skills are a bit weak)
may find it easier to enjoy the experience if they don’t have to deal with shuffling the cards
themselves. An automatic card shuffler can be a fun and inexpensive gift.
5. Memory and keepsake journal
When starting a memory journal, ideas can be hard to come by. That’s why journals that feature guided
prompts to help grandparents record the details of their lives (to share with future generations)
make such excellent gifts. Most journals also include pages for documenting the family tree and
flaps for storing photos and mementos.
6. Birthstone ring
Rings made of the birthstones of children or grandchildren make popular gifts for elderly moms or
grandmas who enjoy a bit of bling. Some rings can hold up to six different stones, and some include
space to engrave names.
Gifts for Health and Fitness
You can show you care with a gift that encourages and builds fitness, health, and wellness. Plus, many of
these gifts are portable and easy to use, making it simpler for your friend or loved one to optimize their
quality of life from home or on-the-go. Check out the following gift ideas for senior fitness and health:
1. SodaStream sparkling water maker
Carbonating your own water means the final ingredient list of your fizzy beverage is up to you. Fresh
sliced fruit, water flavor enhancers, and splashes of fruit juice can be added to sparkling water to
make delicious options for keeping hydrated. Since many seniors struggle to drink enough water each
day, this can be a fun way to promote health and hydration with the push of a button.
2. Apple AirPods
These sleek and ultra-portable Bluetooth earphones come with a charging case, location tracking,
excellent sound quality, and full connectivity with Apple devices. Some models have active noise
cancellation or a clinical grade hearing aid feature. These earphones can help seniors feel more
connected, whether talking on the phone, listening to music, or watching a TV show.
3. SHOKZ OpenMove Open-Ear Headphones
These open-ear headphones deliver lightweight, earbud-free comfort for all-day use. Bone conduction
headphones sit in front of the ear canal rather than inside it, and the sound waves are transferred
via the jawbone instead of the inside of the head. Unlike traditional headphones, they keep you
connected to your surroundings. The wraparound titanium frame offers a secure fit, ideal for jogging
or commuting. Enjoy six hours of music or calls on a single charge and experience clear audio
channeled through your cheekbone.
4. Resistance bands and workout DVDs
Resistance bands are one of the safest and least intimidating ways for seniors to start a strength
training and flexibility program. The intensity of the exercise can easily be increased or decreased
since it’s all about the thickness of the band you choose and where you hold it for a given
exercise. Plus, they are extremely safe and fun to work with.
5. Fitbit health and fitness tracker
Fitbits and other similar watch-style fitness trackers give seniors and their loved ones and
caretakers a simple way to monitor activity, sleep, heart rate, and more. Some models like the Sense
also offer features like built-in GPS, stress tracking, an ECG app (available in the US and other
select countries), and an alert for low or high heart rates. This device is an excellent tool for
improving health and potentially flagging problems to discuss with a doctor.
6. Exercise bike
An exercise bike can be an affordable and low-impact way for seniors to incorporate cardiovascular
exercise into their regular routines without the need to leave the house. Upright bikes can provide
great workouts for those who can still ride a regular bike with a bike seat. Recumbent bikes are a
good option for those who need a wider seat with back support and various degrees of intensity.
7. Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
Whether you just want to exercise more throughout the day or need a low-impact cardio alternative,
these devices are genius. These pedal machines are developed to be quiet, adjustable, and stable.
They fit under a desk or table and can be used while working at a computer, browsing the internet,
crafting, watching TV, and much more. Plus, these are extremely safe and, used properly, don’t pose
risks for falls or injuries.
Gifts for People With Alzheimer’s or Dementia
Some of the best gifts for Alzheimer’s patients and people with dementia are those that help ease their
anxiety, soothe their agitation, or stimulate their minds. Check out the following suggestions:
1. My Life in a Book
Sometimes, the best gift for someone who has everything (or is hard to buy for) is a sentimental one. As
people age, they often get the urge to share their anthologies of memories with those close to them.
Instead of scattered stories here and there, “My Life in a Book” can give your parent or grandparent
a simple method of sharing memories via interview-style question prompts delivered to them weekly. You
get to choose which questions they get. When you have gathered enough information, the stories and
photographs they’ve shared are compiled into an attractive, professionally crafted book. Plus,
additional copies of the book are very affordable, so the people closest to your senior loved one can
also enjoy browsing history and reminiscing about the “good old days.”
2. Jigsaw puzzle
Why not give your loved one a gift that engages the brain and promotes relaxation? The nostalgic
imagery and large pieces of these jigsaw puzzles are designed to appeal to seniors with dexterity
challenges and memory issues.
3. Fidget hand muff or blanket
Items with a variety of textures can be excellent gifts for someone with Alzheimer’s. Having
something to fiddle with can soothe restless hands and reduce anxiety. A wide range of designs are
available.
4. Day clock
Having a clock that displays the date, day of the week, time of day, and hour can be a great way for
seniors with dementia or memory issues to orient themselves. Most “Alzheimer’s clock” models have
extra-large displays for easy viewing, and some also allow you to adjust the dimness level.
5. Robotic cat or dog
Allow your loved one to experience the companionship of a pet without the responsibility of caring
for a living creature! Specifically designed to comfort older adults, these robotic pets sport
realistic fur along with sensors that allow them to respond to human touch.
6. RAZ Memory Cell Phone
The RAZ Memory Cell Phone offers a simplified interface to take the confusion out of making and receiving
calls. The main (and only) screen displays 6-24 photos or avatars for one-click dialing, plus an
emergency button that the caregiver or user can customize to call 911 or RAZ Emergency Service.*
Plus, RAZ gives you access to features designed to help you feel more empowered to connect with, assist,
and protect your elderly loved one, even from afar. The Remote Manage app and portal allow you to:
- Track location
- Manage contacts
- Set time limits on communication
- Send reminders
- View and control the phone’s basic functions, depending on the level of accessibility or limitations
needed
7. Wheelchair blanket
One of the most practical gifts for dementia patients who use a wheelchair is a soft blanket that
wraps around their legs but doesn’t get caught in the chair’s wheels. These blankets feature Velcro
loops to keep them in place; some also include hand warmer pockets.
8. Hero Automatic Medication Dispenser
The Hero automatic pill dispenser helps seniors with dementia by reducing the risk of missed or
incorrect doses. It automatically dispenses the correct medications at scheduled times, with clear
prompts and caregiver notifications for missed doses. The Hero medication dispenser is about the
size of a coffee machine, and sends reminders if pills are not removed within 15 minutes and alerts
when medication is running low.
9. Talking clock
The talking clock comes with a large, easy-to-read screen that shows the day, date, and time. It
includes unlimited alarms, personalized messages, and a clear voice option. You can customize
reminders, which can be helpful for individuals with dementia to stay oriented and keep track of
their schedule.
Gifts for Visually Impaired People
Does an older adult on your list struggle with low vision? Here are a few products for the blind and visually
impaired that make excellent holiday gifts:
1. Large print measuring cups
Does your loved one live for baking or cooking? These measuring cups feature extra large contrasting
type on both the handle and cup bottom to make measuring ingredients a snap.
2. Magnifying glass necklace
Necklaces that incorporate a magnifying glass make fantastic gifts for older women who need a little
extra help reading things like store labels. Many styles are available, so you can buy different
necklaces to match your gift recipient’s outfits.
3. Probing cane
One of the most useful gifts for a blind person, a cane allows your loved one to maneuver confidently
by detecting stairs, curbs, and other obstacles. Keep in mind that straight canes give more sensory
feedback, while folding canes are easier to store.
4. Talking watch
People with low vision have difficulty seeing the numbers on a standard wristwatch. That’s why
talking watches for people who are blind are so cool. With the press of a button, a voice announces
the current time. Some models even set themselves and automatically adjust to Daylight Savings Time.
5. Low vision keyboard
Make your loved one’s computer a whole lot easier to use! Keyboards with high-contrast oversized keys
make the letters appear larger and bolder. Both wired and wireless versions are available.
6. Big button phone with Braille keys
For a blind person, phone calls can be extremely challenging to make. Simplify the process by giving
your loved one a specially designed phone with oversized keys featuring Braille type.
7. Audible subscription
An audible subscription is one of those gifts for blind people that keeps giving. Each month, your loved
one can choose one free audiobook from among thousands of titles and listen to it via their computer or
mobile device.
8. Be My Eyes
Be My Eyes is a specially designed smartphone app for a blind person that pairs them with a sighted
volunteer through a video call. By seeing and describing what the blind person is pointing the camera
at, the volunteer can offer assistance with anything from adjusting the thermostat to checking food
expiration dates. It’s available for both iOS and Android.
Gifts for People Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Are you trying to come up with something special for an elderly friend or family member who is hard of
hearing, deaf, or dealing with another type of hearing impairment? Gifts that may bring a smile to their
face include:
1. Vibrating alarm clock
Help make sure your loved one doesn’t oversleep. Clocks that rely on vibrations rather than sounds
for the alarm can be very useful for people who are hard of hearing or deaf. Some models fit under a
pillow, while others attach to a wrist.
2. Video doorbell
With a video doorbell, your loved one won’t have to stress about not hearing a ring. The doorbell
sends an alert to a smartphone when someone is at the door, allowing the homeowner to see and speak
with the person standing there.
3. Captioned telephone
Your hard-of-hearing friend won’t miss a word of what you’re saying with a captioned telephone that
instantly displays a written record of the conversation.
4. TV listening device
No one wants to miss out on the action. Help your hard-of-hearing friends enjoy their favorite
television programs in comfort with an individual device that allows them to hear the TV and control
the volume without bothering the people around them. You can get devices that connect to either
analog or digital TVs.
5. ELEHEAR Hearing Aids
Give the gift of crystal-clear hearing with Alpha Pro. More than just a hearing aid, Alpha Pro is a
complete auditory solution. Designed for comfort with its ergonomic, lightweight build, it comes
with a portable charging case, Bluetooth streaming, and AI-powered noise reduction that sharpens
human voices amidst background noise. With fully customizable modes, your loved one can enjoy
effortless hearing tailored to their needs.
6. Ear Gear
Hearing aids are expensive, so why not give a gift that helps protect them? These spandex nylon
sleeves keep hearing aids safe from moisture and dirt and are available in eight colors.
7. Apple AirPods Pro 2
AirPods Pro 2 feature a scientifically validated hearing test and active, clinical-grade hearing
protection.
AirPods Pro 2 now provide a clinical grade hearing aid feature that is easy to use throughout the
day.
Simply switch it on and hear clearly. These earbuds include active noise cancellation, adaptive
audio, and
transparency mode, adjusting to your environment for optimal sound.
Gifts for People With Arthritis
For people with arthritis, gifts that ease pain and promote comfort are usually high on the wish list. Check
out these suggestions for gifts for people living with arthritis:
1. Extra-long shoehorn
Would the senior on your list like to be able to slip into their shoes without bending over? These
extended
shoehorns work with dress shoes, sneakers, or boots.
2. Gel Knee wrap
Gel packs that can be shaped around an arthritic knee can provide welcome pain relief. The packs can
be frozen or microwaved to provide cold or hot therapy.
3. Automatic jar opener
Presents that make everyday tasks easier often make the best gifts. Opening jars can be agony for
someone with osteoarthritis, and a device that can do the task for them will be much appreciated.
4. Heated mattress pad
The importance of a good night’s rest cannot be overstated. A heated mattress pad can help your gift
recipient relax and let them wake up each morning feeling refreshed.
5. Power lift chair
Give your loved one the ability to get into and out of an armchair easily. Some lift chairs for
people with arthritis even include massage and heat functionality.
6. Anti-inflammatory supplements
Good quality supplements with proven anti-inflammatory ingredients like curcumin, turmeric, white
willow
bark, and ginger can make a big difference for some seniors with arthritis. The “-itis” in arthritis
directly translates to “inflamed.” Decreasing overall inflammation can reduce and slow symptoms for
many
people. However, since the active ingredients can have other effects, like blood thinning, it’s
important to
always check with your doctor before taking anything new to ensure it’s safe for any current medical
conditions or medications.
Gifts for People Who Have Everything
When it comes to people who have everything, the best gifts often focus on experiences and services or unique
do-it-yourself items that they can’t get anywhere else. Here are a few ideas that may help inspire you:
- An old photo you’ve restored: Many elderly people have decades-old photos that could
use sprucing up. An old photo that’s been restored is a great gift for grandparents who have everything.
You can check out tips on how to restore it yourself using Photoshop, or you can
use an online service like Memory Cherish where you simply take a photo of your photograph with
your phone and upload to the site. - Monthly club delivery: Why not surprise the senior in
your life with a subscription service that delivers wine, gourmet chocolate, beer, cheese, or flowers to
their door each month? - Gift cards for experiences: One way to bring a little cheer to your loved ones is to
treat them to an outing you know they’d love but normally wouldn’t do. Spas, cinemas, and restaurants
are just a few of the places that offer gift cards your elderly loved ones might enjoy. - Housecleaning or yard-care service: Many elderly people who still live in their own
homes appreciate having someone else take care of scrubbing floors, cleaning bathrooms, mowing lawns,
and raking leaves. You could arrange these services for them as a one-time deal or on an ongoing basis. - Charitable donation in their name: For people who really don’t need any more stuff, a
donation in their name to a charity you know they support can be the most meaningful gift they receive.
You could also donate your time to the charity instead of your money and tell the gift recipient that
your labors were done in their honor. - Cooking lesson: Learning a new skill is a good way to keep the brain sharp. If any of
your senior citizen friends have a culinary bent, why not pay for a cooking lesson that teaches them how
to prepare different kinds of foods they may not have tried before? - Theater,
concert, or sports event tickets: Give your loved ones an evening out to indulge
their interests and enjoy their favorite performers. A pair of tickets to a music concert, theatrical
performance, or live sporting event would surely be appreciated. - Ancestry.com membership: Many elderly people are
interested in documenting their family histories. A membership to an online service like Ancestry.com
can guide your gift recipient through their genealogy research and help them fill out the branches in
their family tree. 
Window Bird Feeder: This
squirrel-resistant window bird feeder is a perfect gift for seniors, offering a safe and enjoyable
bird-watching experience from home. With strong suction cups for secure mounting and easy assembly, it’s
a thoughtful present that’s simple to use and built to last.
Spread Some Cheer
Selecting the perfect gifts for elderly friends and family members doesn’t have to be difficult. Use the list
of ideas above for inspiration and make a senior feel special!
*There is an additional fee for RAZ Emergency Service.