Don’t forget seniors on Valentine’s Day!
On Valentine’s Day we usually think about gifts for romance. However, Valentine’s Day is a great time to remember seniors! Instead of giving your Mom or Grandmother (or Dad or Grandfather) flowers or candy, how about surprising them with something practical, that could improve their safety? The right equipment might extend or improve their independence, as well as help them feel loved. Just add a card and a bow, and yes, some chocolate!
This blog is not medical advice, but for educational purposes. Please follow your personal health care teams advice, and see the medical disclaimer.
Practical Valentine’s Day gifts that could improve the independence of your parent or grandparent:
1 Medical alert jewelry can be pretty as well as protective. My siblings and I gave my sweet mom a gold bracelet with a “memory” alert and a number to call. It kept her safe more than once.
2 Something fun that will increase activity like a small home golf putter: (affiliate link)
3 Rather than adding ankle or arm weights for walking, a safer option is a weighted vest,(affiliate link)
4 A cute water bottle, and a cup holder that attaches to a walker. (affiliate link) Increased safety and the ability to stay hydrated are both important.
5 A jar of their favorite jam/ olives and a Non slip jar opener. (affiliate link) Wrist pain, grip weakness and arthritis can make opening bottles and jars very frustrating. This is an inexpensive tool which helps to minimize pain and maintain independence in the kitchen!
6 A new electric toothbrush (affiliate link) can help with shoulder, neck, and wrist pain. Dental hygiene is very important for heart health!
7 Membership to a safety alert type of service. Many seniors are hesitant to spend the money, but they might be inclined accept the service as a gift. Less worry for family members is priceless!
8 Generous sized organic cotton sheets. (affiliate link) Changing bed sheets can be painful and difficult as we age. Back pain, shoulder weakness, and balance issues can make this very difficult. Purchase mattress pads and sheets that are labeled for a “deep mattress,” or that have generous elastic on the sides. I recently purchased these- and have been very pleased!
And, my favorite Valentine’s Day gift for senior health and wellness organization:
9 Purchase a cute notebook, and this inexpensive Health organization packet for senior care at Etsy. Take an afternoon to demonstrate your love by helping them get health organized!
You can also find Clinician and Caregiver Ebooks, inservices and printables!
Happy Valentines Day, and good luck on becoming the favorite child/ grandchild! I would love to hear if you have any other gift suggestions! Start your journey in health organization by subscribing to the blog for a packet of printable freebies, weekly emails and tips on senior care and health.
These are some great gift ideas for seniors. When my parents were alive, we would buy these types of gifts for them, and the smile on their face was priceless.
These are really clever ideas! I love the cup holder for the walker one. I might just get that for my grandpa!