Shopping for presents is never easy, but finding the perfect gifts for elderly loved ones can be especially challenging. Luckily, we're here to help with this ultimate gift guide for elderly people. Whether you're shopping for Christmas or birthday presents, Mother's Day or Father's Day, or a get well soon gift, there's something for everybody.
5 Great Gifts for Elderly Women
Shopping for your elderly mother or grandmother isn't always easy. What do you buy for the woman who has everything? Here are some of our favourite presents for elderly women – there's a mix of practical gifts and luxurious treats.
1. Adult Colouring Book
You might think that colouring is just for the younger generations, but adult colouring has become a big trend in recent years. Lots of adults find that colouring is a very relaxing pastime – almost therapeutic. In fact, many adult colouring books are designed specifically for relaxation and mindfulness. Colouring can also relieve anxiety.
There are so many different colouring books to choose from. This is a great gift idea for anyone on a budget. Prices start from just a few pounds. Choose from stunning animal illustrations to beautiful floral patterns and many great themes besides.
2. Afternoon Tea
Who doesn't enjoy a classic afternoon tea? It's a staple of British culture and, for many older people, a symbol of a bygone age. In the busy modern age, taking the time to sit down with your mother or grandmother for afternoon tea might be worth more than any flashy gadget or designer item.
It doesn't need to be a costly affair either – why not serve up your own spread of sandwiches and cakes at home or in the garden? Or, if you're willing to splash some cash, treat your elderly loved one to afternoon tea in a posh hotel. You could even book ahead with an experience day.
This is a great gift for older women who might love an opportunity to get dressed up while making precious memories.
3. Photo Gifts
For the older woman who has everything, a sentimental gift could be the way to go. Many high-street shops like Boots, Asda, and Tesco offer photo printing services. You can have photos printed and framed to make a beautiful collage of memories.
Alternatively, you can get a little inventive and create a customised calendar full of family photos. Or why not put your favourite snaps on a mug, a canvas for the wall, or even a cushion cover? These are some of the best gift ideas for grandmothers who don't get to see their children and grandchildren as often as they'd like.
4. DIY Gift Hamper
If you're struggling to think of one big present, why not get her a hamper full of smaller gifts? Pick up her favourite sweet treats like biscuits and chocolates, perhaps a bottle of her favourite tipple, a scented candle, some lip balm or hand cream. The possibilities are endless.
A DIY hamper is one of the most thoughtful gifts for elderly women. Of course, you can purchase a pre-made luxury hamper from retailers like Marks & Spencer, Fortnum & Mason, and Selfridges. These would make perfect gifts for elderly women who enjoy the finer things in life.
5. Scarf & Gloves
Did you know that women typically feel the cold more than men? This is because women generally have a lower metabolic rate, and this is even more true of elderly women. To save her reaching for the thermostat, try buying mum or grandma a cosy scarf or pair of gloves.
Opt for a cashmere, chiffon, or silk scarf for a real luxury feel. Or, for maximum warmth, choose high-quality wool. For a glamorous pair of gloves, choose leather or suede. However, if your mum or grandma is a whizz with her smartphone, consider a pair of touch screen gloves.
5 Great Gifts for Elderly Men
Men can be difficult to shop for at the best of times, but when Christmas, Father's Day, or a big birthday rolls around, gift shopping can get stressful. Luckily, we've got five great gifts for elderly men coming right up.
1. Portable Radio
This is a brilliant present for keen gardeners or fishermen. Many radios available today can work off mains power and batteries. Keep it plugged in most of the time, then unplug it and take it with you around the house and garden.
It's ideal for sports fans who don't want to miss a second of the big match. Lots of modern radios allow you to connect an iPod, smartphone, or MP3 player to play your favourite tunes whenever you like.
2. Personalised Wallet
A good wallet is essential. If your elderly dad or grandfather has had their current wallet for years, perhaps it's time for an upgrade. For a personal touch, order online from a store that lets you customise your gift. You might like to get your loved one's initials embossed on the leather or tuck a cherished photograph inside.
For anyone who is concerned about security, buy a wallet with RFID blocking. This will prevent so-called 'electronic pickpocketing' – when thieves use handheld scanners to read credit and debit card information.
3. Brain Teasers
As we get older, we all need to work a little harder to keep our minds sharp. A book of brain teasers and puzzles makes a great gift for older men, especially those who are retired. There are so many to choose from: crosswords, word searches, sudoku, and plenty more.
If he's a fan of a classic pub quiz, why not get him a trivia book and let him be quizmaster for an evening? This could be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with the whole family.
4. DIY Gift Hamper
A gift hamper is a great present for anybody because you can tailor it to your loved one's specific interests and hobbies. Here are just a few things you could include in a gift hamper for an elderly man: a few cans of his favourite beer, a pair of luxury socks, a book by his favourite author, some delicious biscuits, a set of cufflinks, a pack of playing cards, a jigsaw puzzle...the list goes on.
Show dad or grandad that you care by putting together a personalised gift hamper. Or splash some cash on a luxury pre-made hamper full of his favourite drinks and snacks.
5. Reusable Razor Set
The environment is a topic on everybody's minds these days and everyone is trying to cut down on their plastic use. That's why a reusable razor set is one of our favourite gifts for older men right now. Choose a safety razor with a sturdy metal handle for a gift that will last a lifetime.
Many companies offer a razor blade subscription, so he'll get a perfect shave every time and he'll never need to buy another cheap, plastic razor again. To go the extra mile, buy an eco-friendly razor sharpener to make his blades last even longer.
Best Christmas Gifts for Elderly People
Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to show your loved ones that you care, but it can also be stressful. What do you buy for your parents, grandparents, and in-laws? Many families are swearing off gift-giving altogether among the grown-ups, although that might be a little drastic. Instead, why not consider one of these thoughtful Christmas gifts for elderly people.
There's no harm in getting some ideas now before the holiday rush begins.
1. National Trust Membership
If your elderly loved one is a history buff or an outdoorsy type, they're bound to appreciate a National Trust membership. This is a Christmas gift that will keep on giving, as members receive free entry to over 500 National Trust sites across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Members can also enjoy free parking at most National Trust car parks. What's more, you'll know that your money is supporting the preservation of the UK's most unforgettable places.
2. Journal of a Lifetime
This is one of the most thoughtful Christmas gifts for elderly people. A Journal of a Lifetime is an easy way for an older person to record their life story. It contains 60 inspiring questions and prompts for the recipient to write about. The completed journal will be a precious keepsake for the whole family – it could be a wonderful heirloom to pass down to children or grandchildren.
Plus, it's a wonderful opportunity for the recipient to reflect and look back on happy memories. Journals of a Lifetime are available from an online store called From Me To You.
3. Senior-Friendly Mobile Phone
Elderly people are embracing technology more than ever before. In fact, more than half of over-75s were recent internet users according to a 2019 study by the Office for National Statistics. If your elderly parent or grandparent is holding onto an old mobile phone – or doesn't currently use a mobile at all – why not get them one for Christmas?
There are lots of smartphones and mobile devices designed specifically for older users. For inspiration, check out our article: The Best Smartphones and Tablets for the Elderly.
4. Garden Stool/Kneeler
If your loved one has green fingers, they will definitely appreciate this next Christmas gift. A garden kneeler takes the strain out of gardening, which can become quite a challenge for older gardeners.
We recommend choosing a lightweight, foldaway garden stool – on many models, the cushioned seat can be removed and used as a kneeling pad for those hard-to-reach areas. There may also be handy pockets on the side, ideal for storing small gardening tools like a trowel or hand fork.
5. Ancestry Kit
Tracing your family tree has become a popular pastime for older people in recent years, thanks to hit TV shows like Long Lost Family and Who Do You Think You Are? Lots of genealogy services offer starter kits, which make great Christmas presents for elderly people.
Normally, you'll need to send off a sample of saliva for DNA analysis in a genealogy lab. Then, a few weeks later, you'll receive a whole host of information about your genealogy and ethnicity. Many services also offer an online portal, where you can find likely DNA matches and discover relatives you never knew you had.
Get Well Soon Gifts for Elderly People
When an elderly loved one falls ill, a get well soon gift is a lovely way to show that you care. But what to get? Here we have five wonderful get well soon presents for elderly people.
1. Dressing Gown
Creature comforts become even more important for someone who is recovering in hospital. Even the smallest thing can make the biggest difference. A new dressing gown is a lovely present for an older person who is ill or recovering from an injury. Hospital wards can often feel cold, so a warm and cosy get well soon gift is sure to put a smile on their face.
2. Eye Mask
When in hospital, many people find it difficult to sleep. This might be because of bright lighting, distracting noises, or simply the unfamiliarity of a hospital bed. An eye mask can help ensure a good night's sleep or a nice afternoon nap by blocking out unwanted light. Choose a soft material like cotton or satin in their favourite colour or pattern.
3. A Good Book
Whether your loved one is in hospital or at home, periods of illness can often lead to boredom. Invest in a good book or two to keep them occupied – and make sure they have their reading glasses with them.
Or, if they're not much of a reader, why not try an audiobook? You don't need a top-of-the-range smartphone or e-reader. A simple MP3 player will do just fine. You can pick one up for as little as £15 and load up a few audiobooks to help your loved one pass the time.
4. Bedside Caddy/Shelf
If your loved one is recuperating at home, it's crucial to get plenty of bedrest. That's why a bedside caddy or shelf is a great get well soon present for elderly people. It slots in between the mattress and the bedframe and will hold all the bits and bobs they need.
We'd recommend keeping a drink, a phone, a book, and perhaps the television remote close by. Make sure they're wearing their Careline pendant at all times too.
5. Puzzle Books
While you rest your body, it's important to keep the mind active. Puzzle books are a great solution. You can find them for as little as a pound in the magazine aisle of your local supermarket – or there's bound to be a selection in the hospital shop.
Make sure your loved one has a few pens or pencils handy and they'll have hours of entertainment from the comfort of their bed.
Gift Experiences for Elderly People
Sometimes, the perfect gift isn't a new gadget or the latest designer gear – the chance to make precious new memories is often the most valuable gift you can give. With this in mind, here are five gift experiences for elderly people.
1. Spa Day
For the person (or couple) who is always on the go, a spa day is the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind. Find your nearest spa and pick up a gift voucher or book a treatment on your loved one's behalf. Who wouldn't enjoy a relaxing massage, aromatherapy, or revitalising facial?
Spa treatments can be a little pricey, but look out for special offers on websites like Groupon and Wowcher to find the best savings.
2. Tickets to a Show
Take a look at your local theatre's website to see what's coming up in the next few months. There's bound to be something for everybody, from comedy and live music to Shakespeare and ballet.
When you're buying tickets for older people, be sure to look for any senior discounts or concessions. A trip to the theatre makes a wonderful gift experience for older people. To go the extra mile, why not treat them to a nice dinner before or after the show?
3. Wine Tasting or Cocktail Making Class
For any wine connoisseurs or cocktail enthusiasts, a tasting session or class is a great gift experience. If there is a vineyard or winery near you, you might also be able to book a tour and learn about the winemaking process.
Meanwhile, plenty of cocktail bars offer cocktail making classes for small groups, which could make a brilliant evening out for the family.
4. Hot Air Balloon Ride
For an unforgettable gift experience for older people, consider booking a ride on a hot air balloon. Your loved ones can enjoy a bird's eye view of the local surroundings – whether you take to the skies over the countryside or above your home city.
This is one of the more expensive gifts for elderly people on our list, but it's a genuine once-in-a-lifetime experience that your loved ones will never forget. Many hot air balloon rides will also include a glass or two of bubbly once you land.
5. An Invitation to Dinner
If you're shopping on a budget, you can still give an excellent experience gift. Invite your elderly loved one(s) to dinner at your house – send a physical invitation to give it a real sense of occasion.
You may wish to have your children help you write the invites, set the table, and even do some of the cooking if they're old enough. It can be a proper family affair. Fill your menu with your loved one's favourite dishes and tipples to ensure a wonderful evening all round. Bon appetit!
Great Gifts for Grandparents
For many of us, our grandparents are like an extra set of parents. They helped to raise us, made precious memories with us, and taught us so many valuable lessons. That's why finding the perfect presents for grandparents can be tricky, especially for those who are shopping on a budget.
Luckily, we've found five great gifts for grandparents at a range of price points. These could make great Christmas gifts or anniversary presents. Let's take a look.
1. Armchair Caddy
You've just sat down on the sofa with a lovely cup of tea and you're ready to watch your favourite programme on the telly, except...you can't find the remote. Well, with this first gift for grandparents, that problem will be a thing of the past. An armchair caddy is a great way to keep track of easily misplaced items like remote controls, glasses, mobile phones, and pens.
Just pop it over the arm of your favourite armchair or sofa and pop your items inside. This is a great gift for anyone who struggles with mobility to save them from having to turn the house upside down every time they lose their glasses.
2. Memory Album
Many of us don't get to see our grandparents as often as we'd like – and plenty of grandparents would love to spend more time with their grandchildren. If you live far away from your grandparents, why not put together an album of all your favourite photos from over the years?
If you're a parent of small children, you could do this on their behalf and leave plenty of blank space to fill with photos of the years to come. This will make a lovely, thoughtful gift for any grandparent and a precious heirloom to be handed down to future generations.
3. Letters to my Grandchild
If your parents have only recently become grandparents, we've got the perfect gift for you to give them. There are plenty of 'letters to my grandchild' kits available which make excellent presents for grandparents.
The idea is to write letters to the new grandchild throughout their childhood and adolescence, before giving them the completed notebook or folder full of letters on their eighteenth birthday or even as a wedding present.
This present is essentially an opportunity for the happy grandparents to give their grandchild a precious gift years down the line – and what's more special than that?
4. Voice Assistant
Just a few short years ago, voice-activated technology seemed like the stuff of science fiction. Today, it's everywhere – in our smartphones, our televisions, even our cars. Of course, some older people are understandably wary of unfamiliar technology, but voice assistant devices can really make life so much easier.
Some of the most popular options are Amazon's Alexa, the Google Assistant, and Apple's Siri. Smart devices with voice assistants might be cheaper than you think, with prices starting from around £35.
5. Classes or Courses
Even when our school days have long since passed, it's never too late to learn something new. Why not enrol your grandparents on a course – either online or at a local college – and help them pick up a new skill. Perhaps they've always wanted to learn a language, become a master baker, or try their hand at pottery.
There are plenty of educational courses available from the University of the Third Age (U3A) – click here to find your local branch. This makes a wonderful gift for grandparents. Moreover, taking a class together is a great way for an older couple to spend some quality time with each other while broadening their horizons.
Practical Gifts for Elderly People
Sometimes, practical presents are best. Flashy gadgets and expensive trinkets are all well and good, but some people just want presents that they'll actually use in their everyday life. So, here are five practical gifts for elderly people in 2023.
1. No-Spill Mug
We've all been there – you've just settled down with a nice mug of tea or coffee, only to knock it over before you've even had a sip. As we get older, our hand-eye coordination often deteriorates, making spills and splashes more likely. That's what makes a no-spill mug such a practical gift for older people.
There are plenty of different anti-spill mugs available at a range of price points. Most of them work via a suction mechanism on the bottom. This prevents the mug from tipping over when anything knocks into it; the suction will only release when the mug is lifted straight up.
Choose from standard ceramic mugs for household use or insulated travel mugs for enjoying a beverage on the go.
2. Walking Aid
As we get older, we can become a little unsteady on our feet, which may lead to a lack of confidence and a reluctance to go out. A little reassurance can go a very long way, which is why a walking aid could make a great practical present.
There are so many different kinds of walking aid available: walking sticks, frames, walkers, and rollators, as well as trolleys for indoor use. Prices tend to start from around £15 for a decent-quality walking stick. Meanwhile, for a top of the range walker, you could spend several hundreds of pounds.
The right mobility aid can make such an enormous difference to an older person's quality of life, helping them stay active and social.
3. Pendant Alarm
A pendant alarm makes a great practical gift for elderly people because it offers peace of mind to the whole family. Here at Careline, we offer a range of pendant alarm devices that save lives up and down the UK. No matter which alarm you choose, you will benefit from 24/7 support provided by our Care Team.
In an emergency, the user simply needs to press their pendant button, sending an alert. If you have a fall detection plan, it can send an automatic alert if it senses you have fallen. The Care Team will answer the call and arrange whatever help is needed.
Alongside our standard pendant alarm, we also offer landline-free alarms, an automatic fall detector, and a GPS-enabled alarm that protects you wherever you go. To find out more, read our Careline Alarm Guide or give us a free call on 0800 030 8777. You can order an alarm online or by telephone at any time and receive free next-day delivery*.
4. Food Delivery Service
Whether your loved one is a whiz in the kitchen or a slave to the microwave, cooking a nutritious meal can become a little more challenging in later life. Whether it's lack of transport to the supermarket, struggling to carry heavy shopping bags home, or dexterity issues that make slicing and dicing a struggle, there are plenty of ways to help.
If your elderly parent struggles to get to the supermarket each week, why not gift them a grocery delivery subscription and show them how to order their shopping online.
Alternatively, consider giving them a subscription to a meal delivery service such as HelloFresh or Gousto; they'll receive the ingredients for several healthy meals delivered straight to their doorstep, along with an easy-to-follow recipe card for each dish.
5. Motion Sensor Lights
No more stumbling in the dark looking for the light switch. You can now buy motion-activated LED lights, which you can stick onto any flat surface.
Inadequate lighting increases the risk of falls in the home at night time. This practical gift will light your loved one's way to the bathroom or kitchen at night and reduce the risk of falls, helping them stay safe and independent at home.
These lights are much more affordable than you might think – we found a three-pack on Amazon for just £10.99. You can also buy similar motion sensor lights for outdoor use, which will come in very handy during the dark winter months.
Happy Shopping!
And that's it – we've shared 35 great gifts for elderly people in 2023. We hope you've found this article helpful. If you enjoyed this post, why not check out some more articles on the Careline blog? Browse our latest articles to find helpful tips and informative guides.
The Careline Alarm service provides peace of mind to thousands of people across the UK. It's ideal for people who live alone, have long-term health conditions, or who feel they would benefit from extra reassurance at home. For more information about Careline personal alarms, please don't hesitate to get in touch. You can contact us by telephone or email – our phone lines are open 24/7. And don't forget that you can order your new Careline alarm online or by phone at any time.
Editor's Note: This article was updated on 17th October 2023 to reflect current information.
*If ordered before 6pm.
